World newspapers blast `buffoon' Trudeau over exchange with Italian PM

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a self-described feminist, is being slammed for his “repugnant” behaviour after lecturing Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on democracy.

Meloni looked visibly annoyed Friday at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, when Trudeau told her in front of television cameras that “Canada is concerned about some of the positions Italy is taking in terms of LGBT rights.” He said he was looking forward to speaking further with her about this and “other democratic principles that the world needs.”

The Italian leader fired back Sunday, telling reporters the Liberal leader had fallen “victim” to “fake news.”

Speaking in Italian, she said Trudeau was a “bit rash” in his comments, but that after they spoke he probably understood that what gets written about her doesn't correspond to reality. Meloni also pointed out she hasn't changed any existing legislation on LGBTQ issues.

A statement issued by Trudeau's office said the prime minister did raise the issue during their meeting, adding Meloni defended her government's position by saying it's following court rulings related to LGBTQ matters.

Italian media jumped on the unusual public exchange with the Milan-based Libero newspaper splashing a picture of Trudeau on its front page in blackface with the headline, translated from Italian, saying, “This buffoon wants to teach us lessons.”

Sky News Australia host Rita Panahi said Meloni's grimace while being lectured “really sums up what all of us think of the repugnant, incompetent Trudeau.”

Trudeau's critique on Friday came in response to news that Meloni's government told Italian city councils to stop officially recording both parents in same-sex couples and instead limit it to the biological parent. The move has sparked protests by gay rights groups.

Same-sex parents aren't recognized by Italian law, and Meloni has previously said that each child has the right to a mother and father.