Rubio expects 'frank' talks as Trump intensifies criticism of Pope Leo
WASHINGTON, DC: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to hold a “frank” meeting with Pope Leo at the Vatican this week, signalling an effort to maintain dialogue despite increasingly sharp rhetoric from Donald Trump.
According to US Ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch, the visit is aimed at fostering “authentic dialogue” and addressing differences through engagement rather than confrontation.
“Nations have disagreements, and one of the ways to resolve them is through fraternity and dialogue,” Burch said, adding that Rubio’s visit reflects that approach.
The diplomatic effort comes as Trump intensified his criticism of Pope Leo, accusing him of being soft on Iran’s nuclear ambitions. In remarks to conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, Trump claimed the pope was effectively endorsing Iran’s right to nuclear weapons.
The pontiff has made no such statement. However, he has consistently opposed the US-backed war effort against Iran, advocating for restraint and diplomacy instead.
Trump’s remarks have drawn backlash from Christian leaders across political lines, further complicating relations between Washington and the Vatican.
Vatican ties under scrutiny, but no ‘deep rift’
Despite the tensions, Burch rejected suggestions of a serious breakdown in relations, emphasising that the upcoming meeting is intended to “better understand each other” and address disagreements constructively.
Rubio, a practising Catholic, is among the few senior Trump administration officials to have previously engaged directly with the pope, alongside Vice President JD Vance.
Broader diplomatic agenda in Rome
During his visit, Rubio is also scheduled to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has publicly defended the pope’s stance on the Iran conflict.
Italy’s defence leadership has meanwhile warned that the war risks undermining US global leadership.
Pope Leo, marking his first year leading the 1.4-billion-member Catholic Church, has in recent weeks taken a more assertive role on global issues. Alongside opposing the Iran war, he has criticised US immigration policies and urged dialogue with Cuba to avoid escalation.
The Vatican meeting is expected to test whether quiet diplomacy can ease tensions that have increasingly spilled into the public arena.
