Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni fired back at US President Donald Trump after he suggested she was attempting to boost her domestic political standing by mending ties with Washington, telling the American leader to focus on his own popularity instead.
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Terming his attacks as "unprovoked and senseless", she said that her popularity depended on her "ability to defend Italy's national interest"
"President Trump, these constant, unprovoked attacks are senseless. As for my popularity, being your friend certainly has not helped it, nor does it depend on my relationship with you. My popularity depends on my ability to defend Italy's national interest, and that is exactly what I have always done," she said.
"That is also what I did regarding the American military bases in Italy. Their use is governed by agreements that we have always respected, and that cannot be violated as long as I am Prime Minister. Italy remains a sovereign nation. In any case, my popularity is none of your concern. I suggest you focus on yours," she said, reacting to Trump's claim that Italy did not let US use its landing strips.
