Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday responded calmly to criticism from US President Donald Trump, saying that if anyone wishes to criticize him for proclaiming the Gospel, they should do so truthfully.
The Pope made the remarks while speaking briefly to reporters before leaving Castel Gandolfo and returning to Rome after his stay at Villa Barberini. His comments came after recent statements by President Trump, who claimed that the Pope believed Iran should possess nuclear weapons and suggested that such a position could place Catholics at risk.
Rejecting those claims, Pope Leo XIV said the Catholic Church has always maintained a clear stand against nuclear weapons and violence.
“The mission of the Church is to proclaim the Gospel and to preach peace,” the Pope said. “If someone wants to criticize me for proclaiming the Gospel, let him do so truthfully.”
He further explained that the Church’s teaching on nuclear weapons has remained consistent for many years.
“For years, the Church has spoken out against all nuclear weapons, so there is no doubt on that point,” the Pope said.
The Pope stressed that his message since the beginning of his papacy has been centered on peace and dialogue. Reflecting on the words he spoke immediately after his election, Pope Leo said he has always tried to guide people toward reconciliation rather than conflict.
“I simply hope to be listened to because of the value of the word of God,” he said. “From the first moment I was elected, and now we are close to the anniversary, I said: ‘Peace be with you’.”
The remarks are being seen as another sign of growing tension between the Vatican and some political voices in the United States over issues related to war, global security, and international diplomacy.
The Pope also referred to his upcoming meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which is scheduled to take place on Thursday at the Vatican.
Pope Leo XIV expressed hope that the meeting would be marked by openness and understanding.
“I hope it will be a good dialogue,” he said. “It should be approached with trust and openness so that we can understand one another well.”
At the same time, the Pope indicated that the subjects to be discussed with Rubio go beyond the recent controversy surrounding President Trump’s comments.
“I think the issues he is coming for are not today’s issues. We shall see,” the Pope added.
Observers say the Vatican continues to position itself as a voice for peace at a time when global tensions remain high over conflicts in different parts of the world, including concerns over nuclear threats and military escalation.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly called on world leaders to avoid inflammatory language and to work toward peaceful solutions through dialogue. His latest comments once again highlighted the Vatican’s long standing opposition to nuclear weapons and its desire to promote peace among nations.