Trump attacks Italy and PM Meloni for not joining action against Iran's nuclear threat
US President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, accusing Italy of not joining collective action against Iran's nuclear threat despite decades of American protection and NATO spending.
Trump's latest salvo
Donald Trump used Truth Social on 21 June 2026 to criticise Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, claiming Italy had not joined US-led action against Iran's nuclear threat. The post comes amid longstanding tensions over NATO burden-sharing and European defence contributions.
After spending trillions of dollars on NATO, Italy and its prime minister would not even consider getting involved with the Islamic Republic of Iran and its very serious nuclear threat. For decades, we have defended them, but, when tested, they are not there to defend us and the rest of the world. Not good!
NATO spending figures in dispute
Italian news agencies reported the post differently: ANSA and Tgcom24 cited "billions of dollars", while AGI and Adnkronos used "trillions". A Greek outlet translated the claim as "trillions" as well, likely reflecting the original English wording of the Truth Social message. The discrepancy underlines the charged nature of the debate over what the US contributes to the alliance.
Iran nuclear threat context
Trump's reference to "action against Iran" was not detailed. The post characterised the Islamic Republic's nuclear programme as a "very serious threat". No specific military or diplomatic steps were announced by the White House on 21 June, and the nature of the US-led action remains unclear from available reports.
Italy's position and response
Giorgia Meloni has been a frequent target of Trump's social media criticism. As of publication, there was no immediate statement from Rome or from Meloni's office. Italy, a NATO member with significant military commitments, has not publicly commented on any collective operation regarding Iran's nuclear activities. The lack of response from Palazzo Chigi adds to the diplomatic silence surrounding the latest exchange.
