May 5, 2026

Marco Rubio Addresses Tensions Between Trump and Pope Leo XIV During Vatican Visit

Pope Leo XIV responded to President Trump's accusations, emphasizing his mission to preach peace and clarifying he has not supported Iran having a nuclear weapon.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated his trip to the Vatican is not intended to smooth over tensions but to discuss broader U.S.-Vatican relations and mutual interests.
Despite tensions, U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch noted there is no 'deep rift' between the U.S. and the Vatican, advocating for dialogue to address differences.