Trump launches sharp attack on Pope Leo XIV

President Donald Trump launched a sharp and highly unusual attack on Pope Leo XIV, saying the US-born pontiff was “not doing a very good job” and describing him as “very liberal”, while urging him to “stop catering to the Radical Left”.

Speaking to reporters after returning to Washington and in a lengthy social media post, Trump made clear his disapproval, stating: “I’m not a fan of Pope Leo.”

He accused the pontiff of being weak on crime and misguided on foreign policy, particularly in relation to Iran and nuclear issues.

The remarks followed comments by Pope Leo suggesting that a “delusion of omnipotence” was fuelling the US-Israel conflict involving Iran. Although the pope did not name Trump directly, his message was widely seen as a criticism of US leadership and military rhetoric.

Trump broadened his criticism beyond the conflict, taking aim at the pope’s views on issues such as Venezuela and accusing him of politicising his role.

The exchange marks a rare public clash between a US president and a sitting pope, highlighting deep divisions over war, leadership and global policy.