Trump's interview sparks Italy's fury as country's PM fumes: 'I do not beg'

The Italian government has hit back at Donald Trump over his reported claim that Giorgia Meloni “begged” for a photo with him during the recent G7 summit. And Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani abruptly cancelled a planned trip to the US this weekend, calling the President’s words “serious and offensive”.

Ms Meloni also posted a video calling Mr Trump’s reported words “completely fabricated” and expressing shock that he would lie about an ally. She added: “Italy and I do not beg.” The US President allegedly made the comments in a phone interview on the Italian La7 network, after being asked about Ukraine.

He responded by bringing up the Italian Prime Minister, and the conversation turned to their meeting during the G7 in Evian-les-Bains, France. The pair were filmed speaking at several moments, including alone on a small sofa.

According to La7, Mr Trump said Ms Meloni “begged” him for a photo, and while he wasn’t obliged to do it, he felt sorry for her and agreed. The broadcaster did not produce Mr Trump’s original words in English, but voiced them over in Italian.

Ms Meloni responded in her video: “Donald Trump’s statements are completely fabricated. I am frankly stunned.

“I don’t know why the president of the United States behaves this way toward his own allies. After all, this isn’t the first time this has happened.

“I can only say that it’s a shame he doesn’t show the same resolve toward the enemies of the West, toward the enemies of the United States – toward leaders with whom he, on the other hand, is much more accommodating.

“But there’s one thing he must remember: Italy and I do not beg.”

The White House has been contacted for comment.