G7 Summit Highlights: Modi and Meloni's Viral 'Melodi Moment'

An Awkward Kiss, a ‘Melodi Moment’, and a Missing ‘Bear Hug’: Seven Viral Moments from the G7 Summit

The 52nd G7 Summit held in Évian-les-Bains, France, brought together leaders from the world’s most powerful nations to discuss critical global issues, including Ukraine and Iran. While the summit produced significant outcomes, such as US President Donald Trump’s support for Ukraine and the signing of a truce in West Asia, it also delivered lighter moments that captured the internet’s attention. Here are seven viral highlights from the three-day gathering.

1. The ‘Melodi Moment’
One of the most talked-about moments involved Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. During their interaction, Meloni remarked, “It’s good to see you again.” French President Emmanuel Macron then noted their popularity on Instagram, prompting Meloni to joke, “We are the most famous couple of the world.” This playful exchange quickly became a sensation online, especially in India.

2. Modi-Trump Handshake Without the ‘Bear Hug’
When PM Modi and President Trump met for the first time in 16 months, the absence of Modi’s signature ‘bear hug’ was widely noted. The handshake and smiles exchanged between the two leaders came amid strained US-India relations over tariffs. Despite the subdued optics, Trump praised Modi, calling him a “tough negotiator” who always prioritizes India’s interests.

3. Modi Helps Trump Up the Steps
During the G7 family photo session, President Trump appeared to need assistance stepping onto the podium. PM Modi extended his hand to help, creating an image that highlighted global power dynamics. This moment, along with Modi’s light-hearted comment, “We are always ready,” as leaders posed for the photo, gained significant traction online.

4. An Awkward Kiss Between Zelenskyy and Meloni
Another viral moment unfolded when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni greeted each other. As they moved in for a customary cheek kiss, both turned in the same direction, nearly resulting in an accidental kiss on the lips. Meloni’s startled reaction added humor to the situation, which quickly spread across social media.

5. Meloni’s ‘Quit Smoking’ Revelation
Caught on a hot mic during a sideline conversation, PM Meloni shared that she had quit smoking a month ago. German Chancellor Friedrich Merch jokingly asked, “…and a cigarette?” Meloni responded that she had stopped smoking, prompting European Council President Antonio Costa to mention that he had quit 21 years ago. The exchange added a personal touch to the summit’s proceedings.

6. Trump Declares Himself “The Boss”
On the final day of the summit, President Trump entered a roundtable session and introduced himself with the remark, “I am the boss.” The lighthearted comment elicited laughter from fellow leaders, providing a moment of levity amid discussions focused on serious topics like Ukraine, Iran, and global trade.

7. Modi’s Joke Goes Unnoticed
During the photo session, PM Modi cracked a joke, “We are always ready,” but it seemed to go unnoticed by other leaders. While the moment didn’t elicit visible reactions, it resonated with audiences online, adding another layer of humor to the summit.

The G7 Summit may have been dominated by high-stakes diplomacy, but these lighter moments served as reminders of the human side of global leadership.