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Trump Denies Pentagon Pressured Vatican on Military Policy

4/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Allegations that Pentagon officials pressed the Vatican to back U.S. military policy drew denials from U.S. President Donald Trump.
During a January meeting, U.S. defense officials urged Cardinal Christophe Pierre to align the Catholic Church with American strategy.
Pope Leo XIV criticized the shift to force-driven strategies, and the Pope's U.S. visit has been postponed amid tensions.

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Story summary

Allegations that Pentagon officials pressed the Vatican to back U.S. military policy drew denials from U.S. President Donald Trump.
During a January meeting, U.S. defense officials urged Cardinal Christophe Pierre to align the Catholic Church with American strategy.
Pope Leo XIV criticized the shift to force-driven strategies, and the Pope's U.S. visit has been postponed amid tensions.