Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni described U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments towards Pope Leo XIV as “unacceptable” and expressed her full solidarity with the pontiff.
The remarks came after Trump criticized the pope for his opposition to the war in Iran and refused to apologize for his statements.
Meloni’s rebuke has strained what was once considered a close alliance between the Italian leader and the U.S. President, raising questions about the future of their diplomatic relationship.
The disagreement highlights growing tensions between Washington and Rome over foreign policy approaches, particularly regarding Iran and the role of the Vatican in international affairs.
Trump has since criticized Meloni for not supporting his stance on Iran and for siding with the pope, marking a notable shift in their previously cooperative dynamic.
