President Donald Trump has criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, escalating a diplomatic conflict over a controversial photograph. The rift widened when Italy’s foreign minister canceled a planned visit to the U.S. after Trump claimed that Meloni had ‘begged’ him for a photo during the G7 summit.

Meloni firmly rejected Trump’s assertion, labeling it as ‘completely unfounded.’ She stated, ‘Neither I, nor Italy, ever beg.’

On Tuesday, Trump posted on Truth Social, alleging, ‘Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni asked, over and over, for a picture with me during the G7 meeting in France.’

Trump went further to criticize Meloni’s standing in Italy, saying her popularity was low due to Italy’s decision not to participate in the U.S. and Israel’s conflict with Iran. ‘She wouldn’t even let us use Italy’s landing strips or runways, causing significant logistical challenges,’ Trump remarked.

He added, ‘Now, after the United States secured a military victory over Iran, she seeks to restore diplomatic ties to improve her approval ratings. No thanks!’

This situation is ongoing, with further developments anticipated.