As she was accompanying former US President Donald Trump during a joint press conference, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni moved to correct one reporter who blamed Trump for referring to European nations as “parasites.” The exchange took place when one reporter attempted to question Trump on the reported comment, and Meloni jumped into the fray.
“He DIDN’T say that,” Meloni declared firmly, breaking up the questioning and defending Trump’s stand.
Trump Denies Ever Making the Comment
Trump also defended himself directly against the charge, flatly denying the quote.
“I haven’t said it. I don’t even know what you’re talking about,” Trump replied, sounding both shocked and dismissive of the charge.
The reporter did not cite a source for the reported quote, and no public record is available of Trump ever using that word to refer to European countries in recent speeches or interviews.
Briefing Characterized by Striking Demonstration of Alliance
The appearance together was in continuation of Trump’s regular diplomatic-style sessions with foreign allies to reassert his foreign policy rhetoric. Meloni and Trump made a united presentation, again underlining commonalities of values and policy coherence on Western identity and cooperation.
Their partnership has become increasingly visible in recent months, with Meloni often voicing support for Trump’s worldview, particularly on issues of national sovereignty, economic revival, and cultural preservation.
Meloni’s Support for Trump Draws Attention
Meloni, who has been vocal in her conservative views, remains to draw global attention with her open alignment with Trump. Her defense of Trump during the press conference indicates an intimate relationship between the two leaders, especially as Trump contemplates a possible return to public office.
Witnesses saw with what ease Meloni supported Trump, and they said this has been more than diplomacy. How she called a reporter to question his false assertions was also testimony to her eagerness to contradict media accounts which she sees as inaccurate or dishonest.
Social Media Buzzes with Video Clip
Meloni jumps to Trumps defense when a "reporter" claimed Trump called European nations "parasites": Meloni stops him- "He DIDN'T say that".
TRUMP: "I haven't said it. I don't even know what you're talking about." pic.twitter.com/c8hTU0oUbH
— Sara Rose 🇺🇸🌹 (@saras76) April 17, 2025
A clip of the exchange was rapidly shared on social media, with many right-wing users complimenting Meloni for “standing up for the truth” and defending Trump in the moment. The hashtag “He DIDN’T say that” trended on platforms, particularly among Trump supporters.
The exchange fueled continued controversy surrounding media framing and political allegiance, especially as Trump continues to woo international alliances while pushing back against U.S. mainstream media narratives.
A Moment of Loyalty on the Global Stage
In a moment that underlined their growing alliance, Giorgia Meloni’s quick defense of Donald Trump not only clarified the record but also sent a strong message about solidarity and trust. Trump’s denial and Meloni’s support reinforced the strength of their diplomatic rapport amid growing global political polarization.
