President Trump launched a public attack against Pope Leo XIV on Sunday night, labeling the pontiff "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy" in a lengthy Truth Social post. The criticism marks a significant escalation in the already strained relationship between the U.S. leader and the head of the Catholic Church. Trump's remarks specifically referenced the pope's stance during the COVID pandemic.
The president's comments come amid heightened tensions over foreign policy, particularly regarding the Iran war and immigration. The pope has previously spoken out against Trump administration policies in these areas. This public rift represents a notable break from traditional diplomatic norms between the White House and the Vatican.
In his post, Trump made an apparent reference to the pope's expression of concern for Venezuelans following a U.S. raid that captured leader Nicolás Maduro. The president wrote, "I don't want a Pope who thinks it's terrible that America attacked Venezuela." Trump also stated he prefers the pope's "brother Louis much better," claiming he "is all MAGA."
The public criticism could further complicate U.S.-Vatican relations and influence how Catholic voters perceive the administration ahead of upcoming elections. The pope's previous statements on immigration and foreign policy have already created friction with the White House. This latest exchange suggests those tensions have reached a new, more public level.
Some analysts suggest the president's comments may be calculated to appeal to his political base rather than reflect substantive policy disagreements. Others note that previous U.S. presidents have maintained respectful relationships with the Vatican regardless of political differences.