According to the European edition of the 'Politicians' news website, reported on July 7 local time, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken warned U.S. President Trump in an interview with this media that he should not continue to harass Italy's Prime Minister Meloni, who represents Europe's center-right political faction.
Franken said that Europe will still need American military support in the next decade. Therefore, European leaders should act cautiously and avoid alienating Trump.
But Franken also made it clear that there is a bottom line for everything, especially given the context of Trump’s repeated provocative statements against Meron recently.
Franken said, “Of course we need him as an ally, but don’t touch Meloni. She is the queen of European center-right politics, she is the leader. Don’t harass her.”
Theo Franken - Photo. "Politicians" News Network
Franken also believes that, at a time when Europe is strengthening its defense efforts, it is crucial to ensure that Trump is not angered. “We need Americans, we need diplomacy, we need to listen to their opinions, and try to remain gentle.”
On July 5th, Trump once again tried to stir up conflict with Meloni. He posted a photo on social media showing Meloni looking up at him, accompanied by the caption "Need a restraining order," suggesting that Meloni was overly obsessed with him.
Last month, Trump stated in an interview that during the G7 summit, Meron "begged" to meet with him alone and take a picture together. Trump said, "She begged to take a picture with me. I agreed out of sympathy."
Meloni subsequently released a video in response, stating that Trump's claims were 'pure fabrication'. She said that she and Italy 'never beg' anyone.
Meloni was a staunch supporter of Trump. When Trump returned to the White House in 2025, she was the only leader from a major European country who attended his inauguration. Since the outbreak of the war between the United States, Israel, and Iran at the end of February this year, their relationship deteriorated rapidly. Italy's policy of keeping a distance from the conflict has caused dissatisfaction among Trump.
Italian Foreign Minister Gentucci said on July 7 that Italy will no longer respond to Trump's provocative remarks in order to avoid further escalating tensions. He also stated that Italy is and will continue to be a friend of the United States, and the United States is also a strategic partner of Europe.
