Editorial Analysis Published in Taipei Times
An editorial titled "No diplomacy please, we are American" was published by the Taipei Times on Monday, June 29, 2026. The piece features an article originally written for Bloomberg Opinion by Andreas Kluth.
Erosion of Trust Between US and Partners
According to the editorial, personal insults and diplomatic snubs between the United States and its partners are eroding decades of trust. It has been clear to observers outside the "die-hard MAGA scene" that America First policies would eventually result in a situation described as "America Alone." Andreas Kluth reported on an accelerating pace at which US President Donald Trump is alienating other nations and isolating his own.
Interactions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
The article cites recent interactions between President Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a specific example of eroding trust. Andreas Kluth reported that Meloni was previously considered one of the foreign leaders closest to the president, describing her as a "Trump whisperer." The editorial notes she often strikes chords with those coming out of the White House.
Political Context in Italy
The article states that President Trump is unpopular in Italy. It noted he has inveighed against the pope. Andreas Kluth reported that Meloni had to distance herself from President Trump's mistakes, specifically citing a war launched with Israel against Iran.
Denial of Air Base Usage and G7 Summit
The article states that several European countries denied the US use of their air bases for its bombing campaign in the conflict between Israel and Iran. Andreas Kluth reported that Italy was among those European countries to deny the request for air base usage.
Incident at the G7 Summit
According to the editorial, President Trump took a photo with Meloni and other leaders at a G7 summit held in France. The article reports that after taking the photograph, President Trump told an Italian TV station that Prime Minister Meloni "begged" him for it.
Trialogue on Motives
Andreas Kluth stated that President Trump posed for the photograph because he "felt sorry" for her. The editorial characterizes these actions as petty and gratuitous, noting they contribute to a broader pattern of diplomatic friction.