Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Pope Leo XIV, labeling him as ineffective on crime and poor in foreign policy through a post on his social media platform, Truth Social.
In a lengthy message shared on April 13, Trump outlined several grievances against the Pope:
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Weakness on Crime – Trump asserted that the Pope failed to acknowledge the fear experienced by the Catholic Church during the COVID-19 pandemic, when clergy members were arrested for conducting services, even when social distancing was observed.
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Iran’s Nuclear Program – Trump expressed his disapproval of the Pope’s stance, stating, “I do not want a Pope who believes Iran can have nuclear weapons.”
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Venezuela – The former president criticized the Pope’s position regarding U.S. actions in Venezuela, describing the country as a “source of mass drug shipments” and referring to its prisons as “empty.”
Trump also praised the Pope’s brother, Louis, stating, “I like him much more because Louis is a true MAGA.”
Pope Leo XIV, an American by birth, was elected in 2025 following the death of Pope Francis. Trump claimed that Leo’s election was unexpected and suggested that the Church chose an American to better manage relations with him.
“If I were not in the White House, Leo would not be in the Vatican,” Trump stated.
In conclusion, Trump urged the Pope to prioritize common sense, advising him to stop catering to radical leftists and focus on being a great Pope rather than a politician.
Pope Leo XIV, known for his strong statements directed at world leaders, recently addressed heads of state engaged in conflicts, asserting that God does not hear the prayers of those with “blood on their hands.” On March 29, he made a historic visit to Monaco, where he urged local billionaires to use their wealth for justice and aid to the needy. Additionally, he has mandated that priests refrain from using artificial intelligence in sermon preparation.
Donald Trump has criticized Pope Leo XIV for his handling of crime and foreign policy, while also expressing support for the Pope's brother. Trump's comments reflect ongoing tensions between his administration's policies and the Vatican's positions.