Giorgia Meloni stated that the relationship with Donald Trump is more difficult than expected, despite their conservative positions.

In an interview with the New York Times, Giorgia Meloni, the head of the Italian government, acknowledged that she expected an easier collaboration with Donald Trump, considering the similarities between their conservative political positions.

However, experience has shown that the relationship is more complicated, especially after a exchange of words in June 2026, when Trump criticized her for a lack of support in the war against Iran.

Meloni was the only EU leader to attend Trump's inauguration in 2025 and stated that she regrets nothing in the aftermath of their conflict. She also refused to comment on a recent irony from Trump, who posted a photo with the message "necessary restraining order."

Their dispute included mutual accusations, with Trump reproaching Meloni for not authorizing the use of the Sigonella airbase by American forces, while Meloni emphasized that agreements govern these uses. Trump recently stated that he considers her a "person of work," but reiterated his criticisms regarding her support in the conflict in Iran.