US President Donald Trump appears to be spiraling out of control, sparking fierce backlash after a series of posts on his Truth Social platform. In these updates, he attacked Pope Leo XIV, labeling him "weak" on crime and "disastrous" in foreign policy, while simultaneously posting an AI-generated photo portraying himself as a messianic figure. The Pope responded immediately, signaling that he will continue to speak his mind freely against global conflict.
Clash over the US–Iran war
The tension appears to be rooted in recent statements by the Pope, who described as "unacceptable" Trump’s warning that an "entire civilization could be destroyed overnight," in reference to Iran. The Pope has also attributed the ongoing conflict to an "illusion of omnipotence" that fuels modern warfare.
Barbs at the Vatican and the Pope’s appointment
In his post, Trump claimed that the Pope supports the radical left, asserting that the Church had "arrested priests and clergy" during the Covid-19 pandemic. He further stated that he prefers the Pope's brother, whom he described as being "closer to the MAGA movement." At the same time, he implied that the Pope’s election in 2025 was influenced by his own presence in the White House, suggesting the Vatican chose him because he was American and served as a "counterweight to Trump."
Posting an AI image as Jesus
Shortly after his remarks, Trump published an image seemingly created with artificial intelligence, in which he appears dressed as Jesus Christ. Bathed in golden light, he is shown touching a patient while surrounded by nurses and military officers. The post triggered intense reactions from both political leaders and religious figures alike.
Criticism from politicians and the Church
Marjorie Taylor Greene stated she is "praying against" the remarks, accusing Trump of attacking the Pope at a time when the Pontiff is criticizing the war in Iran. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley also expressed disappointment, emphasizing that the Pope is not a political opponent but a "representative of Christ who speaks the truth of the Gospel and the care of souls."
The Pope picks up the gauntlet
Pope Leo XIV responded on Monday to the criticisms leveled by US President Donald Trump, making it clear that he intends to continue speaking out publicly against war, despite the fierce attack and the "weak" label. Speaking to Reuters during a flight to Algiers, where he is beginning a ten-day tour of four African nations, the Pontiff stated that he does not wish to engage in a personal confrontation with Trump. "I do not want to enter into a discussion with him," he said. "I do not believe that the Gospel message should be subject to distortion as some are doing."
Emphasis on peace and dialogue
The Pope emphasized that he will continue to speak openly against war and promote peace and dialogue between nations. "I will continue to speak out against war, seeking to promote peace, dialogue, and multilateral relations for just solutions," he noted, stressing that "too many innocent people are being killed" and that "there must be a better way."
Response from the Vatican
A Vatican official also responded to the attacks, accusing Trump of targeting "a moral voice because he cannot restrain it," highlighting the institutional and ethical dimension of the Pope's role.
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