Trump Blasts Pope Leo XIV in Fiery Exchange, Shares AI Image of Himself as Jesus
United States President Donald Trump has sparked global controversy after launching a sharp personal attack on Pope Leo XIV, criticising the Catholic leader’s stance on crime, foreign policy, and global conflicts.
The US president also stirred reactions online after sharing an AI-generated image of himself portraying a Christ-like figure. In the image posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump is seen in flowing robes surrounded by radiant light, with angel-like figures hovering around him. Fighter jets, fireworks, and the Statue of Liberty appear in the background, blending religious symbolism with national and military imagery.
His remarks followed comments made by Pope Leo XIV, who recently called for global leaders to end escalating violence and embrace dialogue over war.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the Pope as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” accusing him of being overly critical of his administration’s actions.
“He talks about fear of the Trump administration, but doesn’t mention the fear during COVID when churches were restricted,” Trump wrote, referencing pandemic-era lockdowns.
He also questioned the Pope’s positions on nuclear weapons and recent international conflicts, insisting that he is simply carrying out the mandate given to him by voters.
“I don’t want a Pope who thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said, adding that he disagreed with the pontiff’s criticisms of US military actions abroad.
Trump went further to suggest that the Pope’s election was politically influenced, claiming he was chosen partly because he is American and would be seen as favorable in dealing with his presidency.
In follow-up remarks to reporters, Trump doubled down, saying, “I’m not a fan. He’s a very liberal person. I don’t think he’s doing a very good job.”
The comments come shortly after Pope Leo XIV delivered a strong appeal for peace during prayers at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. In his message, the Pope urged world leaders to reject war and prioritise dialogue, warning against the “idolatry of power and money.”
“Enough of war! True strength is shown in serving life,” the Pope said.
Although he did not mention any country directly, his remarks were widely interpreted as a response to growing global tensions involving the United States, Iran, and other geopolitical flashpoints.
The exchange marks a rare and highly public clash between a sitting US president and the head of the Catholic Church, drawing widespread attention across political and religious circles.
