Pope Leo XIV Reaffirms Peace Message Amid Tensions with President Trump
Pope Leo XIV emphasizes his commitment to preaching peace, clarifying that his messages are not directed at President Trump but reflect the broader Gospel teachings.
Pope Leo XIV, during his 11-day tour of Africa, addressed recent criticisms from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his peace advocacy. Speaking aboard the papal plane en route from Cameroon to Angola, the pontiff stated, "There’s been a certain narrative that has not been accurate in all of its aspects."
The pope emphasized that his preaching is not aimed at any individual but is rooted in the Gospel's message of peace. He noted that his recent remarks, including those made at a peace meeting in Bamenda, Cameroon, were prepared well before any comments from President Trump.
This clarification comes after President Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV on social media, accusing him of being "weak on crime" and suggesting that the pontiff supports Iran's nuclear ambitions. The pope has consistently condemned the use of religious justification for war and has called for dialogue and mediation to resolve conflicts.
Despite the escalating rhetoric, Pope Leo XIV reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for peace and justice worldwide, stating that engaging in a debate with the U.S. president is "not in my interest at all."