06.07.2026 10:00
The "photo" controversy between US President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has taken on a new dimension. Trump shared a photo of himself shaking hands with Meloni on his social media account, using the phrase "A restraining order is needed."
The war of words between the two leaders, which began in recent weeks, continues unabated. Donald Trump's latest social media move once again highlighted the diplomatic and personal tension between the pair.
TRUMP'S CONTROVERSIAL NEW POST
As echoes of previous disputes persist, Donald Trump shared a photo with his followers showing him shaking hands with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. In the photo, Meloni appears to be looking at Trump with admiration. Trump wrote over the photo: "A deportation order is needed."
CRISIS STARTED WITH CLAIM "BEGGED FOR THE PHOTO"
The spark of the argument was ignited by Trump's comments aired on Italian television channel La7 on June 19. Referring to their meetings at the G7 Summit in France, Trump said of Meloni: "She begged to have a photo taken with me. She really wanted to take a photo; I didn't want to, but I felt sorry for her."
Meloni responded to these words very clearly on the same day via her social media account, saying, "It should not be forgotten that I and Italy never beg."
HEATED EXCHANGES: THANKS, BUT NO THANKS
Following this response, Trump escalated the controversy further, claiming that Meloni was approaching him for her political interests: "Now that the US has militarily defeated Iran, she (Meloni) wants to be friends again to boost her ratings. Thanks, but no thanks."
MELONI'S FIERY REACTION
In response to Trump's claims, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's reply was equally harsh. Meloni described Trump's words as "meaningless" and issued the following statement: "President Trump, these constant and baseless attacks are meaningless. As for my popularity, being your friend has definitely not benefited me."