US President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV, claiming that the head of the Vatican was elected only thanks to the United States.
In a post on Truth Social, the head of state wrote that he was unhappy with the pope, who does not approve of the US attack on Venezuela.
„Leo should be grateful, because, as everyone knows, he was a stunning surprise. He was not on any list of candidates for pope, and the Church included him only because he is an American and thought that this was the best way to deal with President Donald Trump“, the head of state added.
„If it weren't for me in the White House, Leo wouldn't be in the Vatican. Unfortunately, Leo's weakness on crime and nuclear weapons does not please me," he added.
On April 11, Pope Leo XIV delivered an anti-war sermon in St. Peter's Basilica. "He who turns away from God, turning himself and his power into a mute, blind and deaf idol, submits to death. Enough of self-worship and money! Enough of displays of power! Enough of war!" the pope declared.
Observers have noted that the papal sermons contain "direct references" to to events in the Middle East and criticism of the US administration.