US President Donald Trump has openly criticised Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, saying he was surprised and disappointed by her approach to the Iran conflict. He said he expected stronger support from Italy, which he has long considered a close ally. According to a Reuters report, Trump made these remarks in an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.

Criticism Over Iran Conflict and Shipping Routes

During the interview, Trump said Meloni’s stance on the war was not what he had anticipated. He criticised her refusal to support actions linked to the conflict, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route that he claimed Iran had blocked.

“I’m shocked by her. I thought she had courage. I was wrong,” he said in the interview published online in Italian. Trump suggested that Italy had failed to stand with the US on major strategic issues.

Energy Security Concerns Raised

Trump also pointed to Italy’s dependence on the US when it comes to energy and security. He argued that despite facing high energy costs, Italy was not willing to act decisively.

“They (Italy) pay the highest energy costs in the world and are not even ready to fight for the Strait of Hormuz… They depend on Donald Trump to keep it open,” he said. His comments underline concerns about Europe’s reliance on external support during geopolitical crises.

Sharp Words on Iran Threat

When asked about Meloni’s criticism of his earlier remarks on Pope Leo XIV, Trump responded strongly. He questioned her priorities regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

“She is the one who is unacceptable, because she does not care whether Iran has a nuclear weapon and would blow Italy up in two minutes if it had the chance.” This statement reflects Trump’s continued focus on the perceived threat from Iran.

Shift in a Once Strong Relationship

Trump’s remarks mark a noticeable change in tone toward Meloni. She had been one of his most supportive allies in Europe and was the only European leader to attend his inauguration in 2025.

However, tensions have grown recently. Meloni has criticised Trump’s decision to escalate the Iran conflict. She had also earlier called his comments about the Pope “unacceptable.” Trump further accused her of being unwilling to support US-led efforts on energy security and reopening key maritime routes.

Relations Deteriorate Quickly

The situation highlights how quickly their relationship has weakened. Just weeks earlier, Trump had described Meloni as a “great leader” in the same newspaper. Now, the exchange shows a clear breakdown in mutual support and understanding between the two leaders.

Public Opinion in Italy Shifts

Public sentiment in Italy also appears to be changing. Recent opinion polls suggest that around 66 per cent of Italians now view Trump unfavourably. Experts believe Meloni’s close association with Trump may have affected her domestic standing. This comes after political setbacks, including a recent referendum defeat on judicial reforms.

Economic Pressure Adds to Challenges

The ongoing Iran conflict has also created economic pressure for Italy. The country depends heavily on imported oil and gas. Rising energy prices have increased concerns among citizens and policymakers. This situation has added to the challenges facing Meloni’s government as it navigates both foreign policy tensions and domestic issues.