Meloni States Opposition to U.S. Troop Withdrawal from Italy Amidst Speculation
Italian Prime Minister Responds to U.S. Troop Withdrawal Speculation
Meloni’s Position on U.S. Troop Presence
ROME, May 4 (Reuters) - Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said on Monday she would not support any decision by President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. troops from Italy.
Statement During European Political Community Summit
"It is a decision that doesn't depend on me and one that I personally would not agree with," Meloni told reporters in Yerevan, Armenia, on the sidelines of a European Political Community summit.
Context of U.S. Withdrawal Discussions
Trump’s Comments on Troop Withdrawal
Asked whether Washington would consider pulling its troops out of Italy and Spain, Trump last week answered "probably".
Upcoming Diplomatic Engagements
Planned Meeting with U.S. Secretary of State
Meloni added she would likely meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is due to travel to Rome later this week for talks, including a meeting with Pope Leo.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Giuseppe Fonte in Rome, Editing by Giulia Segreti)
