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Trump Slams Pope Leo XIV Amid Unprecedented Feud

4/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump condemned Pope Leo XIV, calling him "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy" and urging him to stop aligning with the "Radical Left".
Pope Leo XIV used a prayer service to emphasize the need for peace and criticize the "delusion of omnipotence" behind the conflict.
The feud is unprecedented as popes rarely engage directly with U.S. presidents, and Leo XIV will embark on an 11-day trip to Africa.

History

Historical Context

In 1963, Pope John XXIII issued the encyclical "Pacem in Terris," advocating for peace during the Cold War and emphasizing dialogue among nations. This marked a significant moment in Vatican diplomacy, as it was the first encyclical addressed to "all men of good will." The ongoing tensions between political leaders and the papacy reflect the church's enduring influence on moral and international relations.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump condemned Pope Leo XIV, calling him "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy" and urging him to stop aligning with the "Radical Left".
Pope Leo XIV used a prayer service to emphasize the need for peace and criticize the "delusion of omnipotence" behind the conflict.
The feud is unprecedented as popes rarely engage directly with U.S. presidents, and Leo XIV will embark on an 11-day trip to Africa.

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