Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Defends Smoking Habit, Jokes “I Don’t Want to Kill Somebody”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made a sharp-witted defense of her smoking habit at an international summit. Her remarks came in response to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s advice for her to quit. The light-hearted exchange occurred during the recent Gaza Summit in Egypt, drawing reactions from other world leaders.

The moment provided a rare, informal glimpse into the dynamics between global figures. According to the Daily Mail, the conversation highlighted Meloni’s well-known and often-discussed personal habit.

World Leaders React to Meloni’s Cigarette Habit

President Erdoğan initiated the exchange. He is known for his anti-smoking campaign in Turkey. He told Meloni she looked “great” but insisted she should stop smoking.

His comment elicited laughter from French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Macron then humorously noted that it was “impossible” to stop the Italian leader from smoking. Meloni’s quick retort followed immediately. “I know, I know,” she said. “I don’t want to kill somebody.”

Meloni recently revealed she had resumed smoking after quitting for nearly 13 years. She has joked that the habit helps her bond with other leaders, including Tunisia’s President Kais Saied.

Trump’s Praise for Meloni at the Summit

The summit also featured notable comments from former US President Donald Trump. He praised Meloni’s appearance and political stature. Trump acknowledged that calling a woman “beautiful” is often considered politically risky.

“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 stated, as reported by the Daily Mail. He added that he would “take my chances” with the compliment. He later described Meloni as “incredible” and a “very successful politician.”

Meloni has maintained a close relationship with Trump and his political circle for years. During the summit, she also addressed Italy’s stance on Palestinian statehood. She indicated that Italy would be closer to recognizing a Palestinian state following a viable ceasefire.

The exchange underscores how personal quirks can surface even during high-stakes diplomacy. Giorgia Meloni’s smoking habit has become a recognizable part of her political identity. Her humorous defense reaffirmed her straightforward public persona.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Giorgia Meloni say about quitting smoking?

She joked that she did not want to “kill somebody” if she had to quit. This was her light-hearted response to being urged to stop.

Who told Giorgia Meloni to stop smoking?

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan advised her to quit. He has pushed for a smoke-free Turkey and commented on her health.

How did other leaders react to the smoking comment?

French President Emmanuel Macron and UK PM Keir Starmer laughed. Macron then joked that it was “impossible” to stop Meloni from smoking.

What did Donald Trump say about Giorgia Meloni?

Trump called her a “beautiful young woman” and a “very successful politician.” He praised her as “incredible” and widely respected in Italy.

Has Meloni always been a smoker?

No. She recently revealed she started smoking again after having quit for nearly 13 years. She had previously given up the habit.

Trusted Sources

Daily Mail, Reuters, Associated Press