Donald Trump praises Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, U.S. President Donald Trump described Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as an excellent leader and a personal friend. Trump emphasized his positive regard for Italy and stated that Meloni is consistently willing to assist American interests. The comments follow reports that Italy is coordinating efforts to support U.S. and Israeli regional security interests in the Middle East. As part of this commitment, a spokesperson for the Italian Navy announced that a frigate will be deployed to the waters near Cyprus. This deployment is intended to be part of a broader European mission to protect the island following recent Iranian military actions. Meanwhile, Trump also recently criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, contrasting him with the praise offered to Meloni. Italy also plans to provide air defense assistance to Gulf countries, according to statements made by Meloni on Thursday.