Pope Leo XIV Responds to Trump’s Criticism: “The Gospel is Clear”

Pope Leo XIV responded on April 13th to criticisms from U.S. President Donald Trump, reminding him that “the gospel is clear” and that the Church has a “moral obligation to go against war,” as he stated during his flight to Algiers for his third international trip.

“The message of the gospel is exceptionally clear: Blessed are the peacemakers,” the U.S.-born pontiff said to journalists traveling with him on the plane.

The Pope’s Firm Response

Pope Leo XIV also asserted that he has “no fear” of the Trump administration or of “strongly declaring the message of the gospel,” and will continue “speaking of war.” He added that This represents what he believes he must do and what the Church must do, clarifying that the Church does not approach international politics with the same perspective as President Trump.

He stated his belief in the gospel message of building peace, and that he is inviting “everyone to seek ways to build bridges of peace and reconciliation, to seek ways to avoid war whenever possible.”

The pontiff expressed his belief that “the president is not understanding what the message of the gospel is,” even as also stating he feels “much” for the words directed at him by Trump, but affirmed he will continue with his mission. He added that We see “very important to return to that path, whether through the United Nations, or in other ways and work for peace.”

President Trump, on Sunday, attacked Pope Leo XIV, stating he is “terrible in foreign policy” referencing his criticisms of Iran and Venezuela, and urging him to “stop pleasing the radical left.” Trump wrote on his Truth Social network that “The Pope is weak on crime and terrible in foreign policy,” and urged him to “concentrate on being a great pope, not a politician,” because he is “hurting the Catholic Church.”

Calls for Respect for the Pope Amidst Trump’s Criticism

The European Union Ambassador to the Holy See, Martin Selmayr, demanded respect for the Pope and the institution he represents, and stated that Pope Leo XIV’s calls for peace are more important than ever. Selmayr noted that the Pope is a unique institution, 2000 years in the making, and deserves respect regardless of religious or political alignment.

According to Selmayr, in these “volatile geopolitical times,” the Pope’s consistent calls for peace, respect for international law, and diplomacy and multilateralism are more important than ever. He also stated that the European Union maintains a “structured dialogue with the Holy See on foreign policy and global issues,” and works diplomatically with the Pope’s diplomacy to promote peace, international law, and solidarity.

Felipe Santanilla Ayala

Últimas Noticias Staff

With information from EFE

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Pope Leo XIV’s response?

Pope Leo XIV responded to criticisms made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding his views on peace and international politics.

What did Pope Leo XIV say about the gospel?

Pope Leo XIV stated that “the gospel is clear” and that the Church has a “moral obligation to go against war,” adding that “Blessed are the peacemakers.”

How did President Trump criticize Pope Leo XIV?

President Trump called Pope Leo XIV “terrible in foreign policy” and urged him to “stop pleasing the radical left,” and stated he was “hurting the Catholic Church.”

What role does the European Union play in relation to the Pope’s message?