Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will not attend the United Nations General Assembly this week. This marks a departure from a 15-year tradition where an Italian leader participated in the event’s high-level debate. Meloni cited a busy schedule, having recently attended multiple summits, as the reason for her absence.
Her decision also avoids another meeting with a previously amicable associate, President Donald Trump, amidst their growing discord. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized Italy’s support for the UN, highlighting Italy’s representation in various UN initiatives and its candidate leading the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
We believe the United Nations is essential for peace everywhere,Tajani stated.There is great attention from the Italian side.
The friction between Meloni and Trump became public earlier this year. Trump claimed Meloni was eager to secure a photo with him during the G7 summit, accusing her of exaggerating. In response, Meloni called these statements fabricated, insisting neither I nor Italy ever beg.
Trump criticized Meloni for her opposition to U.S. military actions against Iran, labeling her behavior as lacking courage. Meloni reacted by deriding Trump for showing more leniency towards other international leaders.
The dispute intensified in June when Trump accused Meloni of undermining U.S. efforts against Iran by restricting the use of Italian airstrips. He claimed her waning popularity in Italy resulted from this decision.
Despite these tensions, Italy remains a crucial U.S. ally in Europe. The country hosts nearly 13,000 American service members as reported in December 2025. Bases in Vicenza, Aviano, Naples, and Sicily support ongoing U.S. military operations.
President Trump continued to engage with other world leaders, focusing on collaboration with Gulf partners regarding the situation in Iran. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Tajani will represent Italy at the UNGA and is expected to speak on Wednesday.
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