US President Donald Trump described Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as "beautiful" during a speech at a Gaza summit on Monday, drawing attention
as she was the only female leader on stage. The 79-year-old President acknowledged the risk of being accused of sexism for the remarks about the Italian PM, who was standing behind him on the podium. "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 during his speech on Middle East peace efforts. "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." Turning to Meloni, 48, he added: "You don't mind being called beautiful, right? Because you are." Meloni's immediate reaction was not visible, as Trump's back was facing the cameras.
Trump also praised Meloni as "incredible" and said: "And they really respect her in Italy. She's a very successful politician."
Meloni was the only woman among around 30 leaders on stage for the summit, which included signing a declaration pledging to support peace efforts in Gaza.
Trump has previously faced criticism over sexist remarks. In September, a US appeals court upheld a jury's $83.3-million penalty against Trump for defaming author E. Jean Carroll, whom he was found to have sexually assaulted.
