Pope Leo XIV has responded firmly to criticism from Donald Trump over his views on global conflicts.
Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane on his way to Algeria, the pontiff said his responsibility — and that of the Catholic Church — is to proclaim the Gospel, not align with political interests.
He made it clear he is not intimidated by the US administration and will continue to speak out when necessary.
“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,” he said. “We are not politicians. We don’t deal with foreign policy from the same perspective, but I believe in the message of the Gospel as a peacemaker.”
His comments come shortly after Trump criticised his stance on global security, accusing him of taking a liberal position.
The two leaders have repeatedly clashed over issues such as the Iran conflict and migration policies, with Trump opposing the Vatican’s views on US military actions and border enforcement. Tensions have continued to grow since Leo’s election in 2025. Although Trump initially described it as a “great honour” for the United States, relations soon deteriorated over disagreements on war, migration, and the role of religion in politics.
The pope has been outspoken against the Iran war, calling it unjust and warning against what he described as a “delusion of omnipotence” driving global conflict. He has also rejected the use of religion to justify violence, stressing that “God does not bless any conflict” and urging leaders to choose dialogue over war.
On migration, Leo criticised the administration’s policies, describing mass deportations and enforcement actions as inhumane and contrary to human dignity.
Despite the rising tensions, he maintained that his mission remains unchanged, insisting that the Church will continue to speak on moral issues regardless of political pressure.
