Melania Trump defended her #BeBest anti-cyberbullying campaign at an event on Wednesday, telling former Fox News host Eric Bolling that “sometimes you need to fight back” on social media.

Melania’s #BeBest campaign has been the target of criticism since it was announced, given her husband, Donald Trump, is well known for his personal attacks on critics and is generally a giant bully.

The first lady acknowledged that her #BeBest campaign is beset by critics on a regular basis — though she did not explicitly mention the president.

“I knew when I started the initiative that I will be criticized, but I will do what is right for the next generation,” Mrs. Trump said. She went on to say that it’s very important to her that “the next generation can be respectful and kind” on social media.

She did have one caveat though: “And also sometimes you need to fight back, I’m sorry.”

The line echoed Donald Trump’s defense whenever he is called out for divisive rhetoric. Earlier this month, when asked about his war on the media, Trump explained: “I have to fight back.”

Bolling also asked Melania about raising Barron under the immense pressure of the the White House.

“How does he respond to you?” Bolling asked, concerning the first lady’s activism.

“He’s that age — sometimes you feel the children they don’t listen but they listen. He is very aware and I hope he follows what I teach him,” Melania said.

Bolling followed up, wondering if Melania monitors what Barron is doing on social media and how she explains the anti-bullying message of the “Be Best” campaign to him.

She said Barron was not on social media right now because he is “only interested” in sports.

“He’s a great athlete,” said the first lady. “I teach him to be responsible and treat people with respect and kindness.”

It should be noted that just this morning, Donald Trump retweeted two very offensive memes, one calling for the jailing of his political opponents, and the only claiming immigrants receive thousands in welfare.

WATCH:

First lady Melania Trump says she knew that when she started her "Be Best" campaign she "will be criticized, but I will do what is right" so the "next generation can be respectful and kind, and also sometimes you need to fight back, I'm sorry" https://t.co/AfEIFrfeM5 pic.twitter.com/cbAC5sXSBu

— ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) November 28, 2018