Pope Leo has stated he has "no fear of the Trump administration" and will continue to advocate for the Gospel's message of peace. The comments come after President Trump sharply criticized the pontiff on social media, calling him "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy" and expressing concern over the Pope's stance on Iran's nuclear program.
Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Africa, Pope Leo declined to directly address the President's remarks but pushed back against attempts to politicize his message. He emphasized that the mission of the Church is rooted in a consistent call for peace, applicable to all leaders. "Someone has to stand up and say that there is a better way," he stated, highlighting dialogue, reconciliation, and multilateral cooperation as the path forward amidst rising global tensions.