Key facts
- Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced the country will no longer respond to U.S. President Donald Trump's provocative remarks.
- The decision aims to avoid fueling disputes among allies, according to Tajani.
- Trump recently posted a picture of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni with the caption "RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED" ahead of a NATO summit.
- Meloni had previously accused Trump of fabricating a story about her after he claimed she "begged" him for a photo.
- Italy maintains its position as a friend and strategic partner of the United States and Europe.
Italy has decided to cease responding to provocative remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. The announcement comes as NATO leaders prepare to convene for a summit.
Tajani stated in an interview that the decision was made to avoid escalating disputes among allies, particularly as Trump has a tendency to provoke, especially on social media. He reiterated that Italy remains a steadfast friend and strategic partner to both the United States and Europe.
The shift in approach follows a recent public exchange between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Last month, Meloni accused Trump of fabricating a story after he claimed she had pleaded with him for a photograph at a G7 summit. Trump appeared to reignite this dispute by posting a picture of Meloni looking up at him on Truth Social with the caption "RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED," shortly before they were both scheduled to attend the NATO summit in Turkey.
Meloni, who was once a strong supporter of Trump and attended his 2025 inauguration, has also previously criticized him. This latest incident was highlighted by Italy's Il Foglio newspaper, which mocked Trump's jibe by publishing a picture of him alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin with the same "RESTRAINING ORDER NEEDED" caption.