Story perspectives

Trump Slams Pope for Criticizing His Foreign Policy

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump attacked Pope Leo XIV, labeling him 'weak on crime' and 'terrible for foreign policy'.
The attack followed the pope's condemnation of Trump's rhetoric on the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and nuclear ambitions.
Trump said on Truth Social that he does not want a pope who supports Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The pope, known for peace appeals and migrant-reflection, has emerged as a vocal critic of Trump's policies.

History

Historical Context

In 1963, Pope John XXIII issued "Pacem in Terris," advocating for peace and condemning the nuclear arms race during the Cold War. This encyclical emphasized human rights and diplomacy, influencing global leaders, including U.S. presidents. The ongoing tensions between political figures and religious leaders, highlighted by recent criticisms of Pope Leo XIV, reflect the complex interplay between national interests and moral leadership in foreign policy.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump attacked Pope Leo XIV, labeling him 'weak on crime' and 'terrible for foreign policy'.
The attack followed the pope's condemnation of Trump's rhetoric on the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and nuclear ambitions.
Trump said on Truth Social that he does not want a pope who supports Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The pope, known for peace appeals and migrant-reflection, has emerged as a vocal critic of Trump's policies.

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