Trump Accuses Pope Leo of Endangering Catholics Ahead of Rubio’s Vatican Meeting

Trump accuses Pope Leo of endangering Catholics

Former President Donald Trump told radio host Hugh Hewitt that Pope Leo’s stance on Iran “is endangering a lot of Catholics and a lot of people.” The remark comes days before Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s scheduled meeting with the pontiff in the Vatican.

“He thinks it’s fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.

The pope has not advocated for an Iranian nuclear arsenal, but he has publicly challenged the administration’s approach to the conflict, calling for diplomatic solutions.

Rubio’s itinerary includes a frank dialogue with Leo on May 7 at the Apostolic Palace, coinciding with the first anniversary of the pope’s tenure. U.S. ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch said the talks will address the Middle‑East war, immigration and broader security concerns.

Rubio’s visit marks a ↓ 1 diplomatic setback for the administration.

Vice President JD Vance, himself Catholic, urged the Vatican to focus on moral teachings while the White House navigates policy. “Real disagreements are inevitable,” he said, adding that the president “applies moral principles in a messy world.”

Critics note that Trump’s social‑media post featuring an AI‑generated image of himself as a Christ‑like figure was quickly removed after backlash from religious groups.

Relations between the United States and Italy’s leader Giorgia Meloni, a longtime ally of Trump, have also soured after the president hinted at withdrawing troops from Europe if allies do not back the Iran strategy.

For further analysis see Reuters and AP News.