Pope Leo XIV has responded to criticism from United States President, Donald Trump, insisting that his position on global conflicts is guided by faith, not politics.
Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Algeria, the pontiff rejected suggestions that his views align with any political agenda, stressing that his mission remains rooted in the teachings of the Gospel.
“I have no fear of your administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do, what the Church is here to do,” the pope said.
“We are not politicians. We don’t deal with foreign policy with the same perspective you might understand it, but I do believe in the message of the Gospel, as a peacemaker.”
The remarks come amid growing tensions between the Vatican and Washington, following a series of criticisms from Trump, who has accused the pope of adopting what he described as a liberal stance on global security issues.
Disagreements between both leaders have centred on the ongoing Iran conflict and migration policies, with the U.S. president repeatedly faulting the Vatican’s position on military actions and border enforcement.
Relations between the two figures have been strained since Leo’s emergence as the first American pope in 2025.
Although Trump initially described his election as a “great honour” for the United States, the relationship has since deteriorated over differing views on war, migration, and the role of religion in governance.
The pope has consistently criticised the Iran war, warning against what he termed a “delusion of omnipotence” driving global conflicts.
He has also condemned the use of religion to justify violence, insisting that “God does not bless any conflict” and calling on world leaders to prioritise dialogue over confrontation.
On migration, Leo has taken a firm stance against strict enforcement measures, describing mass deportations as inhumane and incompatible with human dignity.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, the pontiff maintained that his role remains that of a moral voice on global issues, reaffirming his commitment to peace.
He said the Church would continue to speak out on matters of conscience and justice, regardless of political pressure, underscoring his position as a “peacemaker.”
