Relations between Washington and the Vatican have entered unusually tense territory after U.S. President Donald Trump launched a harsh public attack on Pope Leo XIV.
Speaking aboard Air Force One and later in a post on Truth Social, Trump described the Pope as “weak on crime” and “terrible on foreign policy,” criticizing his positions on Iran and his repeated calls for peace.
Trump accused the pontiff of aligning with the political left and interfering in American politics, adding that he preferred the Pope’s brother, Louis Prevost, whom he called “totally MAGA.” He also claimed that Leo XIV would never have been elected Pope had Trump not been in the White House.
The president further criticized the Pope’s opposition to U.S. military actions abroad, including comments regarding Venezuela and broader concerns about war and nuclear escalation.
Responding during his trip to Africa, Pope Leo XIV remained calm but firm. “I am not afraid of him. I speak of the Gospel and of peace,” he told journalists, adding that he had no intention of engaging in a personal dispute with the American president.