Pope Leo XIV: ‘War is back in vogue and the zeal for war is spreading’ © Marek Ladzinski/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
By Ojukwu Chukwu
Officials in the administration of Donald Trump have denied claims that they threatened the Vatican following criticism from Pope Leo XIV over U.S. military actions.
The controversy stems from a January meeting at the Pentagon between Vatican envoy Cardinal Christophe Pierre and U.S. defence official Elbridge Colby. Reports suggested tensions rose after the pope condemned the growing reliance on military force globally.
According to analysts, remarks made during the meeting were interpreted as implying the U.S. could challenge Vatican authority—claims the Pentagon has dismissed as exaggerated, insisting the discussion was respectful and focused on foreign policy and moral considerations.
Relations between Washington and the Vatican have been strained, particularly over U.S. actions in Iran, Venezuela and migration policies. The pope has openly criticised what he describes as a global shift toward war, while U.S. officials maintain their policies are aimed at securing peace.
Despite the tensions, both sides have signalled willingness to maintain dialogue and cooperation on shared concerns.
Tags: Trump, Vatican, Pope Leo XIV, US foreign policy, Pentagon, Catholic Church, Iran conflict, diplomacy, global politics
