I like her, but she made mistake: Trump on Meloni's stance on Iran

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday again blamed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for refusing to support Washington during the Iran conflict. He said the decision had strained their relationship despite describing her as a "nice person."

Speaking to reporters during the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump said his relationship with the Italian leader had deteriorated because Rome chose not to back US efforts in the Middle East. While he softened his criticism with personal praise, he insisted Meloni had made the wrong decision.

The remarks cap weeks of increasing friction between the two leaders, as disagreements over Iran, NATO and a series of personal social media exchanges have changed what was once seen as one



of Trump's strongest partnerships with a European leader.

Asked about his relationship with Meloni, Trump said their ties had cooled over Italy's stance during the Iran conflict.

"She refused to get involved, so it soured my relationship with her a little bit. But I like her. I think she's a nice person, actually. But I think she made a mistake," Trump told reporters.

He added that the disagreement centred on Italy's refusal to assist Washington during the crisis.

"She refused to help us" with Iran, Trump said.

His comments followed renewed criticism of European allies that he believes failed to support the US during the conflict with Tehran.