Saturday, March 29, 2025
Washington/Rome: April 15, 2026
The long-standing and deep friendship between US President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appears to be souring. Trump has shown significant displeasure following Meloni’s diverging stance on the ongoing tensions with Iran and the issues surrounding Pope Leo XIV. In a sharp attack during a recent interview, Trump stated he was “shocked” by Meloni’s changed attitude, noting that while he expected her to be a “bold” and courageous leader, she no longer seems to be the person she once was. Trump explicitly remarked that she lacks the courage to stand against Iran.
The political dispute deepened further when Trump issued a warning regarding Italy’s security. He claimed that Meloni is indifferent to the possibility of Iran possessing nuclear weapons, which he asserted could destroy Italy in just two minutes if given the chance. Trump added that it is “very sad” that an ally like Italy is not supporting the United States in eliminating the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran. Furthermore, highlighting the rising energy costs in Italy, Trump criticized Meloni for hesitating to struggle for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, leaving the entire burden on the United States.
Experts believe that this friendship with Trump is becoming a “political liability” for Meloni. Once considered Trump’s closest European ally, Meloni is now facing a surge of negative public sentiment toward Trump within Italy, which is impacting her own popularity. Approximately 66% of Italians now dislike Trump, forcing Meloni to distance herself from him to save her government. Public dissatisfaction has been further fueled by rising oil and gas prices caused by the Iran war, making it increasingly difficult for Meloni to defend her political position at home.
| Issue | Trump’s Position | Meloni’s Position / Context |
| Iran War | Demands full support; claims Iran is a 2-minute threat to Italy. | Hesitant due to economic impact and public opposition. |
| Pope Leo XIV | Accused the Pope of being “weak” and siding with Iran. | Defended the Pope, calling Trump’s criticism “unacceptable.” |
| Strait of Hormuz | Insists Italy must help keep the energy route open. | Struggling with domestic energy inflation and public unrest. |
| Public Opinion | Believes in “Bold” leadership and military pressure. | Facing 66% disapproval of Trump among her voters. |
Note: This rift marks a significant shift in Transatlantic relations, as Italy was previously seen as the primary bridge between the Trump administration and the European Union.
