Pope Leo XIV has responded to criticism from Donald J. Trump, saying he remains committed to promoting peace and will not be intimidated by political pressure.
The pontiff made the remarks while speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane, addressing comments by Trump that criticised his views on the conflict involving Iran and broader foreign policy issues.
Pope Leo made it clear he had no intention of escalating the exchange with the former U.S. president.
“I will not enter into debate. The things I say are not meant as attacks on anyone,” the pope said.
Instead, he emphasised that his comments are rooted in the Church’s mission to encourage dialogue and prevent conflict.
“I am inviting all people to look for ways of building bridges of peace and reconciliation, of looking for ways to avoid war any time that’s possible,” he added.
The pontiff also dismissed suggestions that criticism from political leaders could silence the Church’s voice on global matters.
“I have no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel, which is what I believe I am here to do, what the Church is here to do,” he said.
Pope Leo stressed that the Catholic Church approaches international issues from a moral and spiritual perspective rather than a political one.
“We are not politicians; we don’t deal with foreign policy with the same perspective he might understand it. But I do believe in the message of the Gospel, as a peacemaker,” he stated.
The pope further reaffirmed that he would continue pursuing what he believes to be the Church’s mission in a world marked by conflict and division.
“I will continue on with what I believe is the mission of the Church in the world today,” he said.
Trump had earlier launched a sharp attack on the pontiff in a social media statement, accusing him of being “weak on crime” and criticising his stance on international issues, remarks that sparked fresh debate about the role of religious leaders in global politics.