Italian PM Meloni rebukes Trump over criticism

Alsharq Tribune-Ahmed Essam 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday sharply rejected renewed criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, calling his remarks "senseless and unprovoked" and saying her popularity in Italy was "none of his concern."

In a statement, Meloni said her approval ratings are based on her ability to defend Italy's national interests rather than on her relationship with Trump. She urged the U.S. president to focus on his own popularity instead.

Meloni's response came after Trump posted a message on Truth Social claiming that the Italian leader repeatedly sought photo opportunities with him during the recent G7 summit in France and that her domestic popularity has suffered because of her stance toward the United States.

Trump also criticized Italy for refusing to allow the use of its airfields during U.S. operations related to Iran and argued that Washington contributes heavily to the defense of Italy and other NATO allies.