Pope Leo XIV has responded to criticism from Donald Trump, saying the Vatican’s calls for peace and reconciliation are grounded in the Gospel and that he is not intimidated by the Trump administration
Speaking on Monday aboard a papal flight to Algiers, where he began an 11-day tour covering four African countries, the first US-born pope dismissed the idea of engaging in a personal dispute with the US leader.
“I don’t want to get into a debate with him,” he said, stressing that his focus would remain on peace efforts and global dialogue.
He added that he would continue speaking out against war and advocating for diplomatic solutions.
“I will continue to speak out loudly against war, looking to promote peace, promoting dialogue and multilateral relationships among states to seek just solutions to problems.”
He also warned about the human cost of global conflicts.
“Too many people are suffering in the world today. Too many innocent people are being killed. And I think someone has to stand up and say there’s a better way.”
The comments come after Trump, in a Sunday night social media post, launched a strong criticism of the pope, describing him as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” while also stating he did not want a pope who criticises the US president.
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As it should be