Italian Foreign Minister Cancels U.S. Trip amid Trump Controversy

Italy’s foreign minister has called off a scheduled visit to the United States. This decision comes in response to comments made by President Donald Trump regarding Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

During a broadcast with Italy’s La7, President Trump claimed that Meloni, who is considered one of his closest allies in Europe, had pleaded with him for a photograph at the recent G7 summit. The summit took place between Monday and Wednesday and involved top world leaders. Trump reportedly stated, “She wanted a picture with me so badly. I wouldn’t have taken it, but I felt sorry for her.”

Antonio Tajani, Italy’s foreign minister, criticized Trump’s comments as “serious and offensive.” He described them as insulting to “all of Italy.” Tajani’s visit to the U.S. was initially planned for Sunday and Monday.

Prime Minister Meloni quickly addressed Trump’s remarks on social media, expressing her surprise and denying the alleged incident. She stated, “Neither I nor Italy ever beg.”

This is an evolving story; further updates will be provided as they become available.