Meloni Rebukes Trump's NATO Criticism, Citing Alliance's 'Extraordinary Solidarity' Post-9/11

Rome, Italy – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has issued a strong condemnation of former US President Donald Trump's recent critical statements concerning NATO's contributions in Afghanistan. Meloni described Trump's remarks, which questioned the utility of the alliance and downplayed the involvement of non-US troops, as "unacceptable," particularly given their origin from a key allied nation.Trump, in a recent interview, reiterated his long-held skepticism about NATO, claiming the US never needed the alliance. He specifically asserted that troops from other NATO countries deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11, 2001 attacks had largely remained on the periphery, rather than engaging on the front lines.Countering these assertions, Meloni underscored the historic significance of NATO's response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. She noted that for the only time in its history, the alliance invoked Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, signifying a collective defense commitment in solidarity with the United States. Italy, she stated, responded immediately, deploying thousands of soldiers and ultimately paying a substantial price with dozens of its service members losing their lives.The Italian Prime Minister stressed that while the enduring friendship between Italy and the United States is built on shared values, this relationship fundamentally requires mutual respect. "Friendship requires respect - a fundamental prerequisite to continue ensuring the solidarity that forms the foundation of the Atlantic alliance," Meloni stated, as reported by her office.Meloni, a prominent figure within the European far-right, has cultivated a notable rapport with Donald Trump, often positioning herself as sympathetic to his political stances. Despite the recent friction, the two leaders are understood to maintain close communication, a dynamic that adds a layer of complexity to this transatlantic dispute. This episode underscores ongoing debates about burden-sharing and strategic objectives within the NATO alliance, particularly as the United States navigates its presidential election cycle.