By George Omagbemi Sylvester
U.S. President Donald Trump has criticised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, accusing her of lacking courage for refusing to support American military action against Iran, despite their previously close political alignment.
April 15, 2026, In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Trump said he was “shocked” by Meloni’s position, arguing that she has failed to cooperate with the United States at a critical moment in the Iran conflict and in securing strategic energy routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
He described her stance as a departure from what he expected of a key European ally, insisting she was “very different” from his earlier assessment of her leadership.
The remarks come amid growing tension between Washington and Rome over the widening war in Iran, with Meloni previously criticising Trump’s approach and distancing Italy from direct involvement in the conflict.
Reports indicate she has also taken steps to reassess Italy’s defence cooperation with Israel, signalling a more cautious diplomatic posture.
The exchange highlights a widening rift within Western alliances, as geopolitical pressure over Iran reshapes relationships even among long-standing political partners.
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