ALGIERS and LONDON — On Monday, Pope Leo XIV addressed recent criticism from President Donald Trump during his visit to Algeria, asserting that he feels “no fear” regarding the White House’s stance.
“I am not intimidated by the Trump administration, nor will I hesitate to openly share the message of the Gospel,” the Pope stated as he commenced a multi-day tour across four African nations. “This is my conviction, and I am committed to fulfilling the mission of the Church.”
On Saturday, the Pontiff advocated for the cessation of warfare, indirectly referencing the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran without explicitly naming it. “War must come to an end,” Leo declared during a peace vigil held at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
The Pope also indicated that a “delusion of omnipotence” may be contributing to the hostilities involving the U.S. and Israel, urging leaders to seek a peaceful resolution.
In response, Trump took to social media on Sunday evening, labeling the Pope as “WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy.”
Pope Leo, who hails from Chicago and is the first American Pope, was appointed to his position in May 2025, shortly after Trump began his second term. At that time, Trump congratulated Leo, expressing on social media that it was a significant honor for an American to ascend to the papacy.
Throughout his papacy, Leo has expressed deep concern over various military conflicts, consistently advocating for peace. He has addressed issues such as the civil war in Sudan, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the violence between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Since the escalation of U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran, he has called for peace throughout the Middle East.
The Pontiff has emerged as a prominent advocate for global peace since he took office last May. He has urged all parties involved in conflicts to pursue negotiations, stating on March 1 that he made “a heartfelt appeal to all parties to take moral responsibility to stop the cycle of violence before it becomes insurmountable.” He emphasized that “God does not bless any conflict.”
On Monday, the Pope clarified that his remarks “are not intended as personal attacks, as the message of the Gospel is quite clear: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers.’
“I will not hesitate to proclaim the Gospel’s message, encouraging everyone to seek paths toward peace and reconciliation, aiming to prevent war whenever possible,” Leo stated. “To equate my message with the President’s actions reflects a misunderstanding of the Gospel’s teachings, and I regret hearing that.”
Earlier on Monday, Trump urged the Pope to concentrate on “being a Great Pope, not a Politician,” arguing that the Pope’s stance is detrimental to both his image and the Catholic Church.
In response to media inquiries later that day, Leo commented on the apparent discord with Trump, stating, “I do not view my role as political… I have no desire to engage in a debate with him. I believe that the Gospel’s message should not be misused as some are doing.”
“I will persist in my vocal opposition to war, advocating for peace and dialogue, and promoting cooperative relationships among nations to find fair solutions to conflicts,” he added. “Countless individuals are suffering globally, with many innocent lives lost. It is imperative that someone advocate for a more peaceful approach.”
