Trump takes aim at Pope Leo again, days after calling him 'weak on crime'
On April 12-13, 2026, President Donald Trump launched a fresh assault on Pope Leo XIV via Truth Social, labeling the Pontiff "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy." The attack came after Pope Leo publicly condemned the U.S.-Israel war in Iran and criticized U.S. immigration policies, positions Trump described as hostile to his administration. Trump urged the Pope to "get his act together" and accused him of catering to the radical left, repeating these claims to reporters upon arrivin
Key Points
- President Trump publicly criticized Pope Leo XIV on Truth Social, calling him "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy."
- The criticism followed Pope Leo's public condemnation of the U.S.-Israel war in Iran and his calls for deeper reflection on U.S. immigration policies.
- Trump urged the Pope to "get his act together" and accused him of catering to the radical left.
- The Pope's statements included a social media post stating, "God does not bless any conflict," and a homily criticizing those who wage war.
- Trump claimed the Pope was elected because he was American, aiming to deal with Trump's presidency.
Full Details
On April 12-13, 2026, President Donald Trump launched a fresh assault on Pope Leo XIV via Truth Social, labeling the Pontiff "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy." The attack came after Pope Leo publicly condemned the U.S.-Israel war in Iran and criticized U.S. immigration policies, positions Trump described as hostile to his administration. Trump urged the Pope to "get his act together" and accused him of catering to the radical left, repeating these claims to reporters upon arriving in Washington, D.C. The Pope had previously stated on social media that "God does not bless any conflict" and, in a Palm Sunday homily, criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Trump also claimed the Pope was elected because he was American, aiming to deal with Trump's presidency, and stated, "I don't want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States."
Why It Matters
This public feud could strain U.S.-Vatican diplomatic relations, affecting policy discussions on immigration and international conflicts. It may also embolden other global leaders to challenge the Pope's moral authority, potentially weakening the Vatican's influence in geopolitical matters. For the Catholic Church, this confrontation risks alienating conservative congregants who align with Trump's policies while trying to maintain its global moral stance.
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