President Trump attacked Pope Leo XIV on Sunday in a lengthy Truth Social post, labeling him "WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy" and escalating a growing rift between the two leaders.
The president's criticism centers on the pontiff's positions on immigration and military intervention. Trump specifically objected to the pope's concern for Venezuelans after a U.S. military raid that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January.
"I don't want a Pope who thinks it's terrible that America attacked Venezuela," Trump wrote, referencing Leo's public expressions of concern about the operation and its humanitarian impact.
Trump also faulted the Catholic Church's handling of pandemic-related issues, citing what he characterized as problematic stances during COVID. He broadened his criticism to encompass the pope's overall approach to international relations and law enforcement matters.
In an unusual dig, Trump expressed a preference for the pope's brother Louis, claiming the relative better aligns with his political vision. "I like his brother Louis much better than him because he is all MAGA," Trump said.
The exchange reflects deepening tensions between Trump and Leo, the first U.S.-born pope. The two have clashed repeatedly over immigration policy, with the pontiff criticizing Trump administration approaches to border enforcement and asylum seekers.
The conflict has intensified following disputes over U.S. military actions abroad, particularly regarding Iran. Religious leaders and Vatican officials have increasingly voiced concerns about the Trump administration's foreign policy decisions, putting the pope in direct opposition to the president on multiple fronts.
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