Comments from President Donald Trump regarding Giorgia Meloni have ignited a dispute with the Italian Prime Minister. The two leaders are exchanging heated remarks about their popularity among voters.
On Saturday, Trump remarked that Meloni was experiencing low popularity in Italy. Meloni responded assertively, stating that being a ‘friend’ to the president has not benefited her reputation in Italy.
“My popularity is none of your concern,” Meloni stated on Instagram. “I suggest you focus on yours.”
Background of the Dispute
Meloni has been among Trump’s staunch political allies in Europe, enjoying a close relationship with the former president. However, the Iran conflict has strained these ties. Meloni criticized the lack of consideration for civilian casualties in U.S.-Israeli strikes, while supporting Pope Leo XIV during disputes between the U.S. administration and the Vatican.
The quarrel escalated during their recent visit to France for the G7 Summit. Trump claimed during an interview with Italian broadcaster La7 that Meloni ‘begged’ him for a photo together at the summit, which occurred between June 15 and 17.
“She wanted a picture with me so badly,” Trump commented. “I wouldn’t have taken it, but I felt sorry for her.”
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani canceled a U.S. visit due to these “offensive” remarks. Meloni denied the claims, stating they were “completely unfounded” and asserted that neither she nor Italy ever begged.
Trump continued the narrative with a Truth Social post, suggesting Meloni’s popularity was declining due to her refusal to support U.S. military efforts in Iran. Meloni countered, specifying that her relationship with Trump had not positively impacted her popularity.
“These constant, unprovoked attacks are senseless,” Meloni responded via Instagram. “Being your friend certainly has not helped my popularity.”
Polls on Popularity
The ongoing exchange highlights their contested popularity. According to a YouGov survey, Trump is viewed unfavorably by 58.1% of registered voters compared to 40.6% favorably, yielding a -17.5 net rating. Meloni’s favorability sits at -17 within Italy, with 38% positive and 55% negative views. Though ahead of leaders like UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer (-51) and French President Emmanuel Macron (-60), Meloni’s approval rating reflects mixed sentiments.
In terms of governing approval, Meloni holds 44%, higher than Trump’s 36%, as indicated by an Ipsos poll. The Marist poll, in collaboration with NPR and PBS, confirmed Trump’s approval at 36%, a record low amid economic disapproval. Statista’s assessment of global leader ratings reveals Meloni at 39% and Trump at 38%, with disapproval at 55% and 57%, respectively.
Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party leads in Politico polling for parliamentary voting intention, with 28% compared to the Democratic Party’s 22%. Italian media has shown support for Meloni during the dispute. A headline in Libero, a right-wing newspaper, read “Trump is an a**hole” on its front page.
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