Meloni both criticized and mocked her AI-generated photos: They made me look better than I really am

Meloni both criticized and mocked her AI-generated photos: They made me look better than I really am

06.05.2026 18:30

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reacted with an ironic yet stern response to AI-generated fake photos of herself. Mocking the creators for making her look 'better than she is,' Meloni emphasized that the real issue is disinformation. Describing deepfake technology as a 'dangerous weapon,' she called for urgent measures and conscious social media use against these digital attacks that can ruin innocent people's lives.

Italy's first female Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, recently made striking statements about fake photos generated by artificial intelligence that have rapidly spread online. While reacting to the use of technology as a tool for political abuse, she also made an ironic comment.

"AT LEAST THEY MADE ME LOOK BETTER THAN I AM"

Meloni said, "In recent days, various photos belonging to me, produced by artificial intelligence and served as if they were real, have been circulating. I must admit that those who prepared these images, at least in this example I am sharing, have made me look better than I actually am. However, the real issue is that every possible tool is now being used to produce lies and slander."

"DEEPFAKE IS A DANGEROUS WEAPON"

Meloni reminded that the problem is not just the image of politicians, but that vulnerable citizens are at great risk from this technology. Describing deepfake as a "dangerous weapon," the Italian leader highlighted the vital importance of cybersecurity, stating, "As a Prime Minister, I can defend myself; however, many vulnerable citizens do not have this ability. Deepfake is a dangerous tool that can deceive, manipulate, and harm everyone. It can turn into a weapon that darkens the lives of innocent people."

"VERIFY BEFORE YOU BELIEVE"

Calling on social media users to be vigilant against disinformation, Meloni emphasized the importance of digital literacy by saying, "Verify before you believe, and make sure of its accuracy before sharing." Meloni's remarks have reignited debates across Europe on legal regulation regarding AI-generated content.

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