**Trump Revives Feud with Italy’s Meloni Ahead of NATO Summit**
In a surprising turn of events, former US President Donald Trump has reignited a public dispute with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, suggesting he might require a restraining order against her. This comment comes in the wake of Meloni's dismissal of Trump's assertion that she was eager for a photo opportunity with him during the recent G7 summit in France.
The friction between the two leaders escalated after Meloni publicly rejected Trump's claims, arguing that appearing too friendly with the former president could potentially harm her political standing. This exchange has drawn attention as the two are scheduled to meet at a NATO leaders’ summit in Ankara later this week.
On Sunday, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to share a meme depicting Meloni gazing up at him with an admiring expression, accompanied by the caption, “Restraining order needed.” This playful jab, however, is believed to have originated from elsewhere before being amplified by Trump.
Relations between Trump and Meloni have soured further over Italy's reluctance to support the US-Israeli stance regarding the ongoing conflict with Iran. Additionally, Meloni criticized Trump’s comments about Pope Leo XIV, whom Trump described as “weak on crime” and “ungrateful,” further straining diplomatic ties.
The fallout from the G7 summit has also impacted diplomatic engagements, notably leading to the cancellation of a planned visit by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to the US for a business forum in Miami. Despite these tensions, both nations appear to be working behind the scenes to mend their relationship.
Tajani, along with other Italian officials, recently participated in a celebration marking the 250th anniversary of US independence, hosted by the US Embassy in Rome. At this event, he emphasized that “the friendship between Italy and the United States is stronger than any controversy,” indicating a desire to move past recent disputes.
US Ambassador to Italy, Tilman Fertitta, echoed this sentiment in a recent interview, commending Meloni for her leadership and contributions to Italy’s role on the global stage. Fertitta’s remarks suggest a diplomatic effort to downplay the tensions that have arisen between the two leaders.
In Italy, Trump's recent social media activity has not gone unnoticed and has drawn criticism. Carlo Calenda, a former economic development minister and current leader of the liberal Azione party, labeled Trump as “a despicable two-bit bully” and expressed support for Meloni amidst the ongoing feud.
As the NATO summit approaches, it remains to be seen how the interactions between Trump and Meloni will unfold, especially given the backdrop of their recent exchanges. The meeting will likely be scrutinized for any signs of reconciliation or further discord between the two leaders.