Trump Calls Meloni ‘Beautiful’ at Summit, Says He’ll ‘Take My Chances’ on Sexism Claims

Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt: U.S. President Donald Trump described Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a “beautiful young woman” during a speech at a Gaza peace summit in Egypt on Monday, acknowledging that the comment could end his political career in the United States.

Meloni, 48, was the only female leader on stage with approximately 30 other world leaders. The 79-year-old Trump made the remarks while discussing his Middle East peace efforts.

“I’m not allowed to say it because usually it’s the end of your political career if you say it—she’s a beautiful young woman,” Trump said from the podium. “If you use the word ‘beautiful’ in the United States about a woman, that’s the end of your political career, but I’ll take my chances.”

He then turned to Meloni, who was standing behind him, and asked, “You don’t mind being called beautiful, right? Because you are.” Meloni’s immediate reaction was not visible to the cameras.

Trump, who considers Meloni an ideological ally on issues like immigration, also praised her as “incredible” and a “very successful politician” who is highly respected in Italy.

The U.S. President has faced criticism for sexist remarks in the past. In September, a U.S. appeals court upheld an $83.3 million penalty against him for defaming author E. Jean Carroll, whom a jury found he had sexually assaulted.