Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni didn’t mince words when addressing President Donald Trump’s controversial statements on NATO’s Afghanistan involvement. In a pointed X post, she voiced the Italian government’s astonishment at claims that allies lagged behind U.S. forces during the prolonged conflict.
Drawing on history, Meloni recalled the alliance’s historic activation of Article 5 right after 9/11—a gesture of unwavering support for America. This collective response marked a pivotal chapter in NATO’s legacy, she noted.
Underlining Italy’s pivotal role, Meloni detailed how her nation committed thousands of soldiers to key theaters, spearheading Regional Command West. The human toll was immense, with 53 fatalities and more than 700 injuries sustained in rigorous combat, patrols, and capacity-building efforts for Afghan troops across two decades.
Such statements belittle irrefutable sacrifices, Meloni argued, particularly when voiced by a partner nation. With longstanding ties bridging Rome and Washington, she affirmed that respect and solidarity form the alliance’s core principles.
The remarks originated from Trump’s Davos interview on January 22, where he suggested allies avoided the heat of battle and questioned their dependability. Meloni’s rebuttal reignites discussions on transatlantic unity, urging a reaffirmation of NATO’s foundational commitments in an era of geopolitical uncertainty.