Trump Unleashes Tirade Against ‘Weak,’ ‘Terrible’ Pope Leo/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Trump blasted Pope Leo XIV in a sharp public tirade. Trump called the pope “weak on crime” and “terrible” on foreign policy. The clash follows Pope Leo’s criticism of the Iran war.
Trump vs Pope Leo Quick Looks
- Trump attacks Pope Leo on social media
- Calls pope “weak on crime”
- Accuses Leo of catering to “Radical Left”
- Feud tied to Iran war criticism
- Pope calls for peace and diplomacy
- Trump posts AI Jesus-style image
- Vatican silent after criticism
- Tensions between White House and Vatican escalate
Deep Look: Trump Unleashes Tirade Against ‘Weak,’ ‘Terrible’ Pope Leo
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump launched a harsh public attack against Pope Leo XIV Sunday night, escalating tensions between the White House and the Vatican amid disagreements over the Iran war and immigration policy.
Trump used a lengthy social media post to criticize the first U.S.-born pope, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy” while accusing him of aligning with progressive political positions.
“Pope Leo is WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy,” Trump wrote.
“Leo should get his act together as Pope, use common sense, stop catering to the Radical Left, and focus on being a great Pope, not a politician.”
The president’s remarks marked a sharp escalation in a growing feud between the two leaders, which has intensified in recent weeks as Pope Leo has increasingly criticized the U.S.-Israeli war involving Iran.
Trump Criticizes Pope’s Policy Positions
Trump also took aim at the pope’s criticism of U.S. foreign policy, including military operations in Venezuela and the Middle East.
“I don’t want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States,” Trump wrote, defending his administration’s actions and arguing that his policies were supported by voters.
Trump also compared Pope Leo unfavorably to his brother, Louis Prevost, claiming he preferred him because he was “all MAGA,” referencing Trump’s political movement.
The president further criticized the Catholic Church’s stance during the COVID-19 pandemic and accused the pope of injecting politics into religious leadership.
Trump later doubled down in comments to reporters.
“I don’t think he’s doing a very good job,” Trump said.
“I’m not a fan of Pope Leo. He’s a very liberal person.”
Pope Leo’s Peace Appeal
Trump’s attack came one day after Pope Leo delivered a prayer vigil at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he warned against what he called a “delusion of omnipotence” fueling global conflict.
During the vigil, Pope Leo called for peace and diplomacy.
“Enough of the idolatry of self and money. Enough of the display of power. Enough of war,” the pope said.
He also urged leaders to abandon military solutions and pursue negotiations.
“It is here that we find a bulwark against that delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive,” Pope Leo said.
Although he did not mention Trump by name, the remarks appeared directed at leaders involved in the Iran conflict.
Controversial Social Media Post
Adding to the controversy, Trump later posted an AI-generated image depicting himself in a Jesus-like role healing a man, surrounded by patriotic imagery including a bald eagle and military aircraft.
The post drew criticism from political observers and religious commentators, further intensifying debate surrounding Trump’s remarks.
Growing Rift Between White House and Vatican
Pope Leo, who became the first American pope last year, has increasingly voiced concerns about:
- The Iran war
- Immigration policy
- Use of religion in political rhetoric
- Global humanitarian concerns
Trump, meanwhile, has defended his administration’s policies and criticized what he views as political commentary from religious leaders.
The Vatican did not immediately respond to requests for comment following Trump’s remarks.
The disagreement underscores a widening divide between political leadership in Washington and moral authority from the Vatican as global tensions continue to rise.
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