Meloni skips UN General Assembly amid tensions with Trump

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will not attend this week’s United Nations General Assembly in New York, ending a longrunning pattern of Italian prime ministers taking part in the annual debate. An Italian official said Meloni is staying home because of a crowded schedule after multiple summits in recent weeks and other domestic matters. Her absence also avoids another possible meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, following a series of public exchanges that have strained their relationship. The tensions grew after Trump criticized Meloni over issues including a G7 photo episode, Italy’s position on U.S. military action involving Iran, and her government’s broader approach to the conflict in the Middle East. Meloni has pushed back, saying Italy does not “beg” and describing Trump’s comments as disappointing. Italy remains an important U.S. security partner in Europe, with thousands of American troops stationed there, while Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani is expected to speak at the UN event.