Trump Loses Last Friend In Europe. No, Not Orbán. Meloni. Donald Trump has publicly criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for not supporting his actions regarding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, and for her defense of the Pope. Meloni responded by calling Trump’s remarks about the Pope unacceptable and affirming Italy’s commitment to peace and its own national interests. This conflict coincides with Italy’s decision to not renew its defense agreement with Israel and its refusal to allow US use of a base for operations against Iran, indicating a significant divergence from Trump’s foreign policy.

• Donald Trump criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling her “unacceptable” for defending the Pope and questioning her stance on Iran.
• Meloni stated that Trump’s remarks about the Pope were unacceptable and emphasized the Pope’s role in calling for peace.
• Italy announced it would not renew its defense agreement with Israel and refused US base usage for operations targeting Iran.
• The article suggests Italy, like other European nations, is distancing itself from Trump’s policies and aligning with a values-based worldview promoted by the Pope.
• The author draws a parallel between Pope John Paul II’s influence in ending communism in Poland and the potential impact of Pope Francis on challenging authoritarianism.