Trump Targets Pope Leo XIV, Labels Him "Ineffective on Crime and Dismal for Foreign Relations"

In a pointed social media tirade Sunday night, President Trump directed his ire at Pope Leo XIV, branding him "ineffective on crime and dismal for foreign relations."

The pontiff has openly criticized the ongoing conflict in Iran and has expressed views that clash with the Trump administration's hardline stance on illegal immigration.

"I don't want a Pope who believes it's acceptable for Iran to possess nuclear weapons. I don't want a Pope who condemns America's actions against Venezuela, a nation flooding our borders with drugs and releasing violent criminals into our streets," Trump asserted in his post.

Pope Leo previously condemned Trump's threats to obliterate Iranian civilization as "truly unacceptable," urging followers to "reach out to political leaders and congressmen to advocate for peace and reject war at all costs."

During a prayer vigil for peace at St. Peter's Basilica on Saturday, Leo, while not mentioning Trump directly, declared, "Enough with the idolatry of self and money! Enough with the display of force! Enough with war! True strength is manifested in serving life."

He called for negotiations to end the conflict, stating, "Leaders of nations bear significant responsibilities. We implore them: stop! This is the moment for peace! Engage in dialogue and mediation rather than planning rearmament and deliberating death!"

On Friday, the Pope reiterated his stance against war via social media, asserting, "God does not bless any conflict. A true disciple of Christ, the Prince of Peace, cannot side with those who once wielded swords and now drop bombs."

In a Palm Sunday homily last month, Leo appeared to take aim at Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, suggesting that Jesus "does not heed the prayers of those who wage war."

Trump further claimed that Leo's papacy was a result of his own influence, stating that he "was only appointed by the Church because he is American, and they believed that would be the best strategy to manage President Donald J. Trump."

"I don't want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States," Trump emphasized.

"Leo needs to get his act together as Pope, apply common sense, cease pandering to the radical left, and concentrate on being a great Pope rather than a politician. It's detrimental to him and, more critically, to the Catholic Church!" Trump added.

Upon returning to Washington, D.C., Trump reiterated his sentiments to reporters, stating, "We don't support a pope who condones nuclear weapons."

"I don't think he's performing well. He seems to favor crime," Trump remarked, labeling Leo as "a very liberal person."