US President Donald Trump has continued his attacks on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, claiming she repeatedly sought a photo with him during the recent Group of Seven summit and saying she was 'doing poorly' politically in Italy.
The remarks escalated a dispute that erupted earlier this week after Trump said Meloni had 'begged' for a photo with him at the G7 meeting in France, which Meloni dismissed as 'completely fabricated.'
Trump claimed Meloni was 'doing poorly' in Italy due to her low popularity and her decision to deny the US unrestricted use of Italian military bases during the war with Iran.
Meloni hit back at Trump's criticism, dismissing his attacks as 'senseless' and defending Italy's decision not to allow unrestricted use of US military bases.
She said her popularity depends on her ability to defend Italy's national interest, and that she would not compromise on the country's sovereignty.
