Pope Leo rejects claim he supports nuclear weapons after Trump tirade

Pope Leo has refuted claims by Donald Trump that he supports nuclear weapons, particularly concerning Iran. Speaking to journalists after a papal retreat, Pope Leo stated that the Church has consistently opposed nuclear weapons and that his mission is to preach peace. This response comes after Trump accused the Pope of endangering Catholics by appearing to be permissive of Iran possessing nuclear weapons. The Pope emphasized the need for truth in political debate and expressed a hope to be heard for the value of God's word. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the two figures, with the Pope scheduled to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to address the situation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended President Donald Trump's remarks regarding Pope Leo XIV's stance on Iran, stating that Trump's comments had been mischaracterized. Rubio explained that Trump's concern stemmed from the potential threat Iran, particularly with a nuclear weapon, could pose to Catholic and Christian populations in the region, as well as to global shipping. This exchange occurred before Rubio's scheduled meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Thursday. Trump had previously criticized the Pope, suggesting he was too lenient on Iran and was "endangering a lot of Catholics." The upcoming meeting is anticipated to be candid, reflecting existing tensions between Washington and the Catholic Church.

President Donald Trump has again criticized Pope Leo, just days before Secretary of State Marco Rubio's planned visit to the Vatican. In an interview on Monday, Trump stated that the Pope is indirectly supporting Iran by focusing on immigration rather than nuclear proliferation. Trump expressed concern that the Pope's remarks on treating immigrants with respect are making the world less safe and endangering Catholics. This renewed criticism could potentially complicate Rubio's diplomatic efforts during his upcoming trip to the Vatican.

President Donald Trump has accused Pope Leo XIV of "endangering a lot of Catholics" by allegedly supporting Iran's acquisition of nuclear weapons. Trump made these remarks during an interview on a conservative radio show, just days before Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet with the Pope at the Vatican. The Pope has not stated that Iran should possess nuclear weapons, but has consistently advocated for ceasefires and dialogue regarding the conflict in the Middle East, opposing the US-Israeli war on Iran. This meeting aims to ease tensions that arose after Trump previously criticized the Pope's stance. The US ambassador to the Holy See expressed optimism for a "frank" conversation between Rubio and Leo, emphasizing dialogue to understand and address any differences in policy.