Meloni rejects Trump's claim she 'begged' for G7 photo, calls remarks 'fabricated'
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday strongly rejected US President Donald Trump's claim that she had "begged" him for a photograph during this week's G7 summit, describing the remarks as false and insulting.
In a video post, Meloni said Trump's account of their interaction was entirely untrue.
"So, certain things deserve an immediate response. Donald Trump's statements are completely fabricated statements. I am frankly appalled. I do not know why the President of the United States behaves this way with his own allies," she said.
Meloni also criticised what she described as Trump's approach towards Western partners.
"Besides, it is not the first time this has happened. I can only say that it is regrettable that he does not show the same determination with the enemies of the West, with the enemies of the United States, with leaderships towards whom he instead proves to be much more accommodating," she said.
"But there is one thing he must remember; Italy and I never beg," she added.
The dispute erupted after Trump told an Italian television network that Meloni had repeatedly sought a photograph with him during the G7 gathering.
"She begged me to take a picture with her. She wanted a picture with me so badly. I wouldn't have taken it, but I felt sorry for her," Trump said.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
