U.S. President Donald Trump has criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, stating that she lacks “courage” in relation to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, according to Italian media reports.
In comments published by the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Trump said he was “shocked” by Meloni’s stance, adding that he had previously believed she showed stronger resolve.
“I am shocked by her. I thought she had courage, but I was wrong,” Trump was quoted as saying, according to the report.
He further suggested that Meloni believes the United States should take primary responsibility in addressing security challenges related to Iran.
The remarks reportedly come after Meloni described Trump’s recent comments regarding Pope Leo as “unacceptable.”
In response, Trump escalated his criticism, stating: “She is unacceptable, because she does not care whether Iran has nuclear weapons and would blow up Italy within two minutes if given the opportunity.”
The exchange highlights growing tensions in rhetoric between Washington and Rome amid broader international debate over Iran and regional security.
