In Italy after Trump-Meloni conflict, fears of US restrictions

Italian authorities fear that after US President Donald Trump's attacks on Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the American military contingent in the country will be reduced and duties on Italian goods will be increased.

This is reported by the newspaper La Repubblica, citing sources in the government and analyzing the latest statements by the American leader, who the day before once again reproached Rome for not supporting Washington during the operation in Iran.

The United States, the publication believes, may include Italy in plans to reduce its military contingent in Europe, although it was previously thought that the southern bases in Italy were of interest to the US given the situation in the Middle East and Africa. In addition, according to the newspaper's assessment, the American leader's attacks on the prime minister could result in new duties on Italian goods, which Rome had so far managed to avoid.

Italy's ruling coalition also fears that the US will bet on supporting the new nationalist party "National Future," founded by General Roberto Vannacci, who left the ranks of the "League." The party, like its leader, takes a radical stance on migration, opposes funding Ukraine and supplying it with weapons, and also opposes Ukraine's accession to the EU.

Earlier, in an interview with the newspaper, Minister for Relations with Parliament Luca Ciriani confirmed that the current conflict between Trump and Meloni could have "serious consequences" for bilateral relations. At the same time, both of Italy's deputy prime ministers—Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini—speak of the inviolability of allied relations with Washington.

Last week, Trump and Meloni exchanged sharp remarks. In particular, the American leader accused the prime minister of ingratitude and attempts to boost her rating through photos at the G7, and she in response advised him to think about his own popularity. The current clash marks a new round in the conflict between the two leaders. Previously, the Italian prime minister publicly defended Pope Leo XIV, calling the American leader's statements about him unacceptable.

Source: TASS