Story perspectives

Pope Leo XIV Rebuts Trump's Criticism During Algeria Flight

4/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV, the pontiff, said during a flight to Algeria April 13 that he is unafraid of U.S. President Donald Trump’s criticisms.
He dismissed Trump's claims of being 'weak on crime' and 'catering to the Radical Left,' stating, 'I do not look at my role as being political.'
The pontiff criticized Trump's framing of the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran as a Christian mission and urged dialogue and multilateral solutions.

History

Historical Context

The Second Vatican Council, convened by Pope John XXIII in 1962 and concluded in 1965, marked a pivotal shift in the Catholic Church's engagement with modernity and interfaith dialogue. Pope Paul VI emphasized ecumenism and social justice, creating the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue in 1964. His recent comments reflect this legacy, advocating for dialogue over divisive politics, underscoring the Church's ongoing commitment to peacebuilding and multilateralism.

1 of 2

Story summary

Pope Leo XIV, the pontiff, said during a flight to Algeria April 13 that he is unafraid of U.S. President Donald Trump’s criticisms.
He dismissed Trump's claims of being 'weak on crime' and 'catering to the Radical Left,' stating, 'I do not look at my role as being political.'
The pontiff criticized Trump's framing of the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran as a Christian mission and urged dialogue and multilateral solutions.

1 / 2