Thursday, October 1, 2026

RN

Right News

Foreign Policy

Pope Leo lectures world leaders on war while clashing with Trump

The Pontiff decries 'tyrants' and military spending, drawing a sharp rebuke from President Trump over foreign policy and national security.

Foreign PolicyPublished April 16, 2026 at 6:40 PM
Pope Leo speaks at a podium.

During a visit to Cameroon, Pope Leo took aim at world leaders, labeling them 'tyrants' and criticizing the billions spent on military operations. The Pope’s comments, which condemned the use of resources for 'killing and devastation' rather than social programs, come on the heels of a high-profile public spat with President Donald Trump.

The President recently blasted the Pope on social media, calling him 'weak on crime' and ineffective on foreign policy.

The tension stems from the Pope’s vocal opposition to the U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran, a regime President Trump has identified as a clear and present threat to global stability, particularly regarding its nuclear ambitions.

While the Pope has attempted to frame the conflict through a lens of pacifism, President Trump has remained unapologetic, asserting that the Pope must recognize the reality of the Iranian threat.

The President noted that while the Pope is entitled to his opinions, he will continue to prioritize American national security and the neutralization of hostile actors over the Pontiff’s diplomatic idealism.

Tags

foreign-policypope-leodonald-trumpirannational-security

More in Foreign Policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during an annual plenary session of the Valdai Discussion Club, on October 2, 2025 in Sochi, Russia
Foreign Policy8h ago

Putin Doubles Down on Ukraine War as Kremlin Signals No End in Sight

Vladimir Putin shows no intention of halting the invasion of Ukraine, as the Kremlin doubles down on its military objectives and continues to threaten European stability through a campaign of hybrid warfare.

A firefighter wearing heavy duty black overalls with fluorescent green stripes holds a hosepipe next to a damaged buildings, which is at the scene of a Russian strike in the Kyiv region.
Foreign Policy17h ago

Russia Unleashes Massive Assault on Ukrainian Power Grid

Russia launched its most significant attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure since the end of the last heating season, hitting 11 regions and causing widespread power disruptions.

A member of the Iraqi security forces gestures as he travels in a convoy through Baghdad, Iraq (30 September 2026)
Foreign Policy20h ago

Mission Accomplished: US and UK Forces Complete Withdrawal from Iraq

The final British and American troops have exited Iraq, marking the successful conclusion of Operation Inherent Resolve and the decisive defeat of the Islamic State's territorial caliphate.