Meloni responds after NATO Summit: “I regret nothing”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni delivered key messages on NATO’s future and her dispute with Donald Trump after the summit in Ankara. Meloni said NATO was aware of the challenges it faces and remained united and determined to strengthen itself.

“Europe must ensure its own security”

Meloni said Italy currently allocates 2.8 percent of its gross domestic product to defense and security. She stated that Italy intended to meet its defense spending commitments, but would do so in a sustainable way, setting its own timing, methods and priorities.

“The time has come for Europe to ensure its own security on its own. This is not about doing anyone a favor; it is about not depending on anyone,” Meloni said.

Military support for Ukraine to continue

Meloni also addressed support for Ukraine, one of the key issues on the summit agenda. She said Italy was considering continuing military aid and noted that Defense Minister Guido Crosetto was working on the matter.

Call for negotiations on Iran

Meloni said she was deeply concerned about developments in Iran and warned that the crisis could spread to other parts of the region. “I have not lost hope in the possibility of negotiations on Iran. I believe the military option has not produced concrete results so far,” she said.

She also stated that Italy was ready to do its part on the security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz by taking the necessary steps in parliament.

Brief answer on Trump

Meloni was also asked about Trump’s latest post targeting her ahead of the Ankara Summit, in which he wrote that a “restraining order” was needed. The Italian Prime Minister gave a brief response, saying, “I had already said I would not return to that issue.”

“I do not change my mind”

Meloni was also asked whether she regretted the political investment she had made in relations with Trump. “I regret nothing,” she said, adding that her approach was shaped by her belief in Western unity.

Meloni said she and Trump had common ground on issues such as migration and “woke” culture, adding, “Events are unfolding as we see them, but I do not change my mind.”