Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV have been openly criticizing each other over the past week, escalating tensions between the White House and the Vatican.
Pope Leo, speaking during a visit to Africa, condemned global leaders he called “tyrants” who spend billions on war instead of helping people, warning against using religion to justify violence. He did not name Trump, but the remarks were widely seen as directed at him. U.S. bishops later voiced strong support for the Pope.
Trump responded sharply, saying he would not meet the Pope and warning about Iran’s nuclear program. He claimed Iran had killed protesters and insisted it must not be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons, adding, “I have to do what’s right.”
He also falsely suggested the Pope had supported Iran having nuclear weapons.
In reality, Pope Leo has repeatedly opposed nuclear arms and called for disarmament and global peace through dialogue.
The exchange has fueled a major political and religious dispute, with both sides doubling down on their positions.