US President Donald Trump has said his relationship with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni became strained after she declined to support Washington’s position on Iran-related issues, though he maintained that he still holds a positive personal view of the Italian leader. Trump said he considered Meloni a “nice person” but expressed disappointment over Italy’s decision not to back the United States on key strategic matters.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said the relationship between the two leaders had previously been strong but changed after Meloni refused to support US efforts linked to the Strait of Hormuz and Iran. He clarified that he did not pressure the Italian prime minister but said he believed Italy’s decision was a mistake and affected their diplomatic ties.

Trump argued that while the United States is less dependent on the Strait of Hormuz because of its own energy resources, Washington considers the region strategically important. He said Meloni’s lack of support during the dispute left him unhappy, marking a significant shift in what had previously been seen as one of his closest relationships with a European leader.

Also Read: Trump Comments On Mourners' Reactions At Khamenei's State Funeral

The disagreement is part of a broader series of tensions between Trump and Meloni. Reports have suggested that Meloni initially believed dialogue could help manage differences between Trump and European leaders, but her position reportedly changed later as disagreements over US policies and relations with allies increased.

Relations further deteriorated after Italy reportedly refused to allow the United States to use its airspace and military bases for operations against Iran. Trump later criticised the decision, saying he had considered Meloni a strong partner but believed she had taken the wrong approach. The two leaders also clashed over comments involving Pope Leo XIV, with Meloni defending the pontiff after criticism from Trump and his supporters.

The diplomatic strain continued after Trump claimed Meloni had sought a photograph with him during a recent G7 summit, a statement she rejected as false. Meloni responded by questioning why Trump appeared more critical of US allies than adversaries, stating that Italy would maintain its position based on national interests and mutual respect rather than seeking approval. Despite the disagreements, Trump said he still likes Meloni personally while acknowledging the current challenges in their relationship.

Also Read: Trump Offers To Mediate Peace Deal Between Russia And Ukraine Leaders