ANKARA/ROME, 21 June (H.S.):

A war of words has intensified between US President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, with both leaders publicly exchanging sharp accusations following the G7 Summit in Évian-les-Bains, France. The dispute has fuelled speculation about growing tensions in relations between the two leaders.

According to Türkiye's Anadolu Agency, President Trump claimed on his social media platform that Prime Minister Meloni had repeatedly sought to be photographed with him during the G7 meeting. He further alleged that Meloni's popularity in Italy was declining and that she was attempting to improve her public image by projecting political closeness with him.

The US President also claimed that Italy had refused to allow the use of certain American military bases and airports on its territory for US military operations against Iran. Trump asserted that, following what he described as the success of the United States' military action against Iran, Meloni was now attempting to restore closer ties with Washington.

Prime Minister Meloni, however, categorically rejected Trump's allegations. In a statement posted on social media, she described the President's remarks as completely fabricated. Meloni said her popularity was based not on her relationship with any foreign leader, but on her government's ability to safeguard Italy's national interests.

She further clarified that US military bases located in Italy could only be used under existing bilateral agreements and stressed that her government would not permit any violation of those arrangements. Italy is a sovereign nation, and its national interests come first, she said.

The dispute escalated further after Trump stated during a television interview that Meloni had been eager to pose for photographs with him. Responding to the comments, the Italian Prime Minister said the US President's claims were factually incorrect and added that such language was inappropriate when referring to the leaders of allied nations.

Following Trump's remarks, Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also cancelled his planned visit to the United States, a move widely viewed as another indication of the growing political strain between the two countries.

Until recently, Trump and Meloni had been regarded as close political allies. Meloni was the only major European leader invited to attend Trump's inauguration ceremony. However, differences over US policy on Iran, military cooperation, and the recent exchange of public statements appear to have created a significant rift in their relationship.

Political analysts believe the dispute extends beyond personal remarks and reflects emerging differences between the United States and Italy on foreign policy and security issues. So far, neither side has shown any signs of softening its position, raising the possibility that the diplomatic tensions could intensify in the coming days.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar