Trump expresses dissatisfaction with Meloni

United States – President Trump harshly criticized Italian Prime Minister Meloni on Tuesday for her refusal to allow Italy to join the Iran nuclear deal, saying he was "shocked and disappointed" by her lack of "courage."

In an interview with Italy's La Stampa, Trump stated: "Will they be grateful to your prime minister for not helping us secure oil? Do they like that? I can't imagine. I'm shocked. I thought she had courage, but I was wrong." Meloni was elected in October 2022, leading a far-right coalition government. She has been one of Trump’s closest allies in Europe, often striving to mediate between U.S. and EU disagreements.

Trump noted that although Italy imports substantial amounts of oil from the region, Meloni does not want Italy drawn into the Middle East war, which began with Israeli and U.S. attacks on Iran.

Earlier, Meloni had described the U.S. president’s criticism of Pope Francis XIV as "unacceptable." La Stampa also published an interview with Meloni. Previously, Pope Francis XIV had repeatedly called for an end to the Middle East conflict.

Mr. Trump added that they hadn’t spoken for "a long time" this month and specifically pointed out: "She has been of no help to us on NATO issues."

Continuing, he said: "She doesn’t want to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. This is very regrettable… She is nothing like what I imagined." He referred to NATO as a "paper tiger" and criticized Europe for being unwilling to fight for the Strait of Hormuz, which is Europe’s energy lifeline.

He further remarked: "Madam Meloni has changed. Italy has changed. Immigration is destroying Italy and the entire Europe."

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani wrote on X: "We have always been, and remain, staunch supporters of Western unity and firm allies of the United States, but such unity is built on mutual loyalty, respect, and honesty." He added: "Previously, President Trump considered Meloni a brave person. His assessment was correct because she is a woman unafraid to speak openly. As for Pope Francis XIV, what she said reflects the sentiments of all Italian citizens."

Elly Schlein, leader of the main opposition party Democratic Party (center-left), also defended Meloni, stating: "No foreign leader has the right to insult or threaten our country and government."

Source: rfi

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862484487576586/

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