US President Donald Trump has openly criticised Pope Leo XIV, saying he is “not a big fan” of the pontiff over his stance on global conflicts and security issues.
Speaking to reporters at Joint Base Andrews on Sunday, Trump described the pope as “a very liberal person” and accused him of being weak on crime and foreign policy.
“I’m not a big fan of Pope Leo. He’s very liberal and doesn’t believe in stopping crime,” Trump said, adding that he disagrees with the pope’s position on countries pursuing nuclear weapons.
The US leader also took to his Truth Social platform to reinforce his remarks, insisting he does not support a pope who appears tolerant of Iran possessing nuclear capabilities.
Trump’s comments come shortly after Pope Leo made a passionate appeal for peace during a service at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. The pope urged world leaders to end violence and prioritise dialogue over conflict.
His message, which condemned the glorification of power and war, is widely seen as a response to escalating tensions involving the United States and Iran.
The exchange highlights growing tensions between Washington and the Vatican, particularly over issues such as military intervention and immigration policies. While both sides have downplayed reports of a major rift, differences in tone and approach have become increasingly visible.
Despite the criticism, Pope Leo has consistently called for restraint, urging global leaders—including the United States—to return to negotiations and pursue peaceful solutions.
Trump’s latest remarks mark an unusual and direct public attack on a sitting pope, underscoring the deepening divide between political leadership and religious authority on key global issues.
