Italy Cancels U.S. Visit Following Donald Trump’s Remarks on Giorgia Meloni

Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has called off a planned visit to the United States after U.S. President Donald Trump made remarks about Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the G7 summit, sparking diplomatic tensions. The cancellation is a direct response to Trump’s comments about Meloni seeking a photo with him.

Italy’s Diplomatic Withdrawal Over Trump-Meloni Photo Dispute

During the G7 summit held on June 16 in Évian-les-Bains, France, Donald Trump and Giorgia Meloni were seen engaging in close conversation. Following the meeting, Meloni told reporters that her relationship with Trump remained unchanged and that there were “no recriminations,” according to the BBC.

However, tensions arose after Trump’s interview on June 18 with La7 TV, where he stated that Meloni was “probably happy I spoke to her” and claimed, “She wanted a picture with me so badly. I wouldn’t have taken it, but I felt sorry for her,” as reported by ABC.

In response, Meloni posted a video on X condemning Trump’s statements as “totally invented.” She expressed surprise at the U.S. president’s behavior toward his allies, noting it was not the first occurrence. Meloni emphasized, “There is one thing he should remember: neither I nor Italy ever beg.”

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani highlighted Italy’s offense at Trump’s remarks by canceling his scheduled trip to the U.S. on June 21 and 22, which included a meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and participation in the Italy-US Business, Investment, Science and Innovation Forum in Miami. Tajani stated, “The serious and offensive words of President Trump towards Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offend all of Italy.” This was reported by the Express US.

Political figures also reacted strongly. Former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi described Trump’s comments as “horrifying” and criticized the alliance with Trump supporters. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini posted a photo with Meloni on X, declaring, “Whoever attacks @GiorgiaMeloni attacks all of us.”