US President Donald Trump has described Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a “nice person,” signalling a softer tone after a recent public disagreement between the two leaders over a photograph taken during the G7 Summit.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Turkey, Trump said his relationship with Meloni had become strained after Italy declined to support the United States during the recent Iran conflict. However, he added that he still likes the Italian Prime Minister despite their differences.
The remarks come weeks after Trump claimed that Meloni had requested a photograph with him during the G7 Summit in France. Meloni rejected the allegation, and the exchange led to diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The disagreement also prompted Italy’s Foreign Minister to cancel a planned visit to the United States.
Reports also noted that Italy had earlier declined permission for US military aircraft to use the Sigonella air base in Sicily, citing procedural requirements for prior government approval.
Despite the recent friction, Italy remains one of the United States’ key allies within NATO, and both countries continue to cooperate on major international and security issues.
(Agencies)
