Italy’s Meloni slams Trump claim: “He begged for a photo” sparks diplomatic crisis

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has accused former U.S. President Donald Trump of attacking “national honor” after he claimed she “begged” for a photo with him at the G7 summit. The dispute has escalated rapidly, with Italy’s foreign minister canceling a planned trip to the United States. The tension began when Trump alleged that Meloni pleaded for a photo opportunity during the summit. Meloni fired back, calling the claim an insult to Italy’s dignity. The exchange comes amid deeper disagreements: Italy has refused to send forces to the Persian Gulf or allow U.S. bases to be used for American strikes. The canceled visit by Italy’s foreign minister signals a rare public rift between the two NATO allies. No further meetings have been scheduled.