Trump lashed out at the Pope
In a lengthy post published on the night of April 13, Trump accused the Pope on several counts.
Donald Trump. Photo: Alex Brandon / AP
US President Donald Trump sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV on his Truth Social network, calling him "weak on crime" and "terrible on foreign policy."
In a lengthy post published on the night of April 13, Trump accused the Pope on several counts:
Weakness regarding crime — Trump stated that the Pope "does not mention the fear" felt by the Catholic Church during COVID-19, when "priests, pastors, and everyone else were arrested" for holding services, even at distances of 3-6 meters.
Iran's nuclear program — "I don't want a Pope who thinks Iran can have nuclear weapons," Trump wrote.
The US President condemned the Pope's stance on the US attack on Venezuela, calling that country a "source of mass drug supplies" and "empty prisons."
Trump praised Pope Leo's brother, Luis, remarking: "I like him much more because Luis is a true MAGA."
Leo XIV (a US native) was elected Pope in May 2025 after the death of Francis.
Trump also claims that Leo XIV was not on the list of candidates for the pontiff's position, and his election was a "shocking surprise." According to the president, the church chose an American to "best deal with President Donald Trump."
Trump concluded the post with a lecture to the Pope: "Use common sense, stop pandering to the radical left, and focus on being a great Pope, not a politician."