Rome, June 21: Italy’s Defense Minister, Guido Crosetto, has expressed confusion over the ongoing dispute between U.S. President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. He stated that he finds the American president’s attitude difficult to understand.
According to Italy’s news agency Adnkronos, during a segment on Radio 24’s program “Caffè della Domenica,” Crosetto remarked, “Our relationship with America does not depend on governments or prime ministers. The ties between our two countries are deep and strong. I am struggling to comprehend Trump’s behavior lately, as what I saw on TV suggested there were no issues in Italy-U.S. relations.”
He added, “My relationship with America remains normal, and there has been no change. Our relations with the U.S. ambassador in Italy are also good. I believe he is in a challenging position these days.”
Crosetto noted, “Many of Trump’s decisions are based on his own thoughts and beliefs. While there may be times of disagreement, there is nothing in defense or other matters for which Italy should be held responsible. Compared to other European countries, we have contributed more, even regarding the use of military bases. We have fully adhered to our agreements, while some other countries have not and have denied permission for use.”
He expressed that understanding this attitude is difficult and lamented that it could harm the long-standing strong relations between the two nations.
In the past 48 hours, Trump has criticized Italy and NATO, stating that the United States has not received adequate support regarding actions related to the Strait of Hormuz.
On this issue, Crosetto commented, “Unfortunately, we have witnessed many ups and downs in international relations in recent years, especially between the U.S. and other countries, as well as in U.S.-Iran relations. This is not easy, and it will not be easy going forward. The recent agreement is not the end of this long journey.”
Regarding Italy’s role, he emphasized that the country is fully prepared from a defense and military perspective. He explained that every mission requires significant preparation and organization.
He stated, “Ships are already present in Djibouti, including mine-hunter vessels, which are ready for action once parliamentary approval and our stipulated conditions are met. We are not sending ships to engage in combat but to remove dangerous mines from the sea for humanitarian purposes. These ships are not prepared to fight anyone who may consider us an enemy or attack us.”
Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. and Iran, both countries are now engaged in direct talks to pave the way for lasting peace and to negotiate the management of Iran’s nuclear program.
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