Meloni Says She Expected Easier Trump Ties, NYT Reports

Published on 21/08/2026 – 21:51 GMT+2

Meloni acknowledged that she had anticipated smoother cooperation with Donald Trump, citing shared views on immigration and opposition to “woke” culture, but noted that reality proved otherwise. She described the evolving difficulties between her government and the Washington administration in an interview with the New York Times.

In July Trump’s post about Meloni: ‘Needs a restraining order’

Tensions peaked last July, ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, when Trump posted on his Truth Social platform an image of himself beside Meloni with the caption “Needs a restraining order.” The phrase evokes a protective measure akin to those used against stalkers, signalling his intent to keep the Italian prime minister at a distance.

In the interview, Meloni said there had been no contact with Trump for several weeks. Asked whether a meeting was planned after the summer break, she replied evasively, “We will see,” adding that she continues to believe Western unity is vital while stressing that Italy’s strategy is not based on personal relationships.

More broadly, she reiterated her opposition to the notion of a subservient Italy that views itself as inferior to other nations, affirming her commitment to pursue “the greatest possible revolution in this country: a revolution of pride.”

‘I want to carry out the greatest possible revolution in Italy: a revolution of pride’

Meloni also discussed her preference for being addressed as “presidente” in the masculine form, reiterating her view that the feminist push for inclusive language is misguided. She argued that true equality lies in her ability to serve as president of the Council of Ministers, not in being called “la presidente.”

She revisited her widely shared rally declaration—”I am a woman, I am a mother, I am Italian, I am Christian”—telling the New York Times that she believes those words resonated with millions who feel their core identities are under threat.

The New York Times profile then traces Meloni’s roots in Rome’s Garbatella neighbourhood, outlines her family background, and details her political ascent, which began in the Youth Front of the former Italian Social Movement, a party with neo-fascist origins.

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