Trump Calls Italian PM Meloni Coward for Not Joining Iran Attacks
President Trump publicly attacked Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling her a coward for refusing to join US military strikes against Iran. Trump told an Italian newspaper he was 'shocked at her' and thought 'she had courage, but I was wrong.'
President Trump delivered a harsh public rebuke to one of his closest European allies, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, over her refusal to support US attacks on Iran.
In an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Trump said he was 'shocked at her' and accused Meloni of lacking courage. 'I thought she had courage, but I was wrong,' Trump said about the Italian leader who had been considered one of his strongest supporters in Europe.
The dispute centers on Italy's decision not to join US military strikes against Iran. Meloni has also criticized Trump's approach to the Iran conflict, which prompted his angry response. Trump accused Meloni of not caring about Iran's nuclear threats.
The public fight marks a dramatic shift in their relationship. Meloni had maintained close ties with Trump, but those connections are now becoming a political problem for her at home. Recent polls show 66% of Italians view Trump negatively, making their friendship a liability for the Italian leader.
This diplomatic break highlights the challenges Trump faces in building international coalitions for military action, even among traditional allies.
This public fight shows how Trump's wars can strain America's key friendships. Italy is a major NATO ally, and these diplomatic breaks could hurt US influence in Europe when America needs support for military actions.
Watch for Italy's response and whether other European allies distance themselves from US Iran policy.
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