President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, openly denouncing the pontiff’s position on the ongoing conflict involving Iran and declaring he is “not a fan” of the Catholic leader.
Speaking to reporters, Trump accused the pope of holding views he described as harmful to foreign policy, particularly regarding nuclear weapons. “We don’t like a pope that’s going to say that it’s OK to have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, adding that Leo opposes confronting nations pursuing such capabilities.
The pope, who has increasingly spoken out on the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, recently condemned Trump’s rhetoric as “truly unacceptable.” His remarks came after the US president warned that “a whole civilization will die tonight” shortly before a temporary two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran was reached.
Leo has also rejected attempts to frame the conflict in religious terms. During Palm Sunday, he emphasized that faith should not be used to justify violence. “Jesus is the king of peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war,” he said, adding that God does not heed the prayers of those who wage war.
Trump’s criticism extended to social media, where he described the pope as “weak on crime” and reiterated his disapproval of Leo’s views on international issues, including Iran’s nuclear ambitions and US actions abroad. He also suggested that Leo’s election was influenced by his American identity, claiming it was intended to shape relations with his administration.
The Vatican responded through Antonio Spadaro, who defended the pope as a “moral voice” being targeted because it cannot be controlled. Writing on X, Spadaro said Trump’s remarks reflected an inability to engage with Leo’s message, which he described as rooted in peace rather than power or national interest.
Pope Leo has consistently advocated for nuclear disarmament, calling for “respectful encounters and sincere dialogue” to build lasting peace based on justice and the common good.
The exchange follows renewed attention to the pope’s stance after a segment aired on 60 Minutes, featuring senior American cardinals expressing support for his position on the war and his earlier opposition to the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Elise Ann Allen, a Rome-based correspondent for Catholic outlet Crux, told CNN that Trump’s remarks may signal concern over the pope’s growing influence on the global stage. She noted that Leo is unlikely to respond directly, as he prepares for a 10-day papal visit to Africa.
Shortly after issuing his criticism, Trump posted an image on Truth Social portraying himself in a Christ-like role healing a sick individual, set against a backdrop of American flags and eagles.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
- Venus L Peñaflor
