Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has called off his scheduled visit to the United States following statements made by President Donald Trump concerning Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Trump’s remarks were seen as offensive by Italian officials.
Earlier this week, Trump spoke to Italy’s La7 broadcaster, claiming that Meloni had ‘begged’ him for a photograph during the G7 summit, which took place between Monday and Wednesday. He described Meloni as someone who ‘wanted a picture with me so badly,’ and added, ‘I wouldn’t have taken it, but I felt sorry for her.’
Tajani described Trump’s comments as ‘serious and offensive,’ deeming them an insult to ‘all of Italy.’ He was originally set to visit the U.S. on Sunday and Monday.
In a swift response on social media, Meloni expressed her disbelief, stating she was ‘stunned’ by Trump’s narrative and emphasized that ‘neither I nor Italy ever beg.’
This is an ongoing situation. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.