Meloni Opposes Potential US Troop Withdrawal from Italy Amid NATO Tensions

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has said she would not support any decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw American troops from Italy, amid growing tensions between Washington and its NATO allies over the ongoing war in Iran.

Speaking during a European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Meloni stated that while the decision ultimately rests with the United States, she personally disagrees with any move to scale back American military presence in Italy. She emphasized that Italy has consistently fulfilled its commitments within NATO, even in conflicts where its direct national interests were limited.

Her remarks come after President Trump signaled he was considering reducing U.S. troop deployments in countries such as Italy and Spain, citing dissatisfaction with their level of support for the U.S.-led military campaign in Iran.

The dispute reflects a broader rift between the United States and several European allies, with Trump repeatedly criticizing NATO members for what he describes as insufficient backing in the conflict.

Despite maintaining a traditionally strong alliance with Washington, Meloni has distanced Italy from direct involvement in the Iran war, stressing that her government does not intend to participate in the conflict while still acknowledging the broader security risks posed by Iran.

The growing disagreement has raised concerns about the future of transatlantic cooperation, particularly as the U.S. re-evaluates its military footprint in Europe and pressures allies to take on a greater role in global security operations.