Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the situation in the Middle East and bilateral relations with Pope Leo XIV after tensions between the pontiff and Trump.

Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, met on Thursday with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican to discuss the situation in the Middle East and other topics of mutual interest. This meeting took place after a period of tensions between the pontiff and President Trump. Rubio, a devoted Catholic, emphasized the close relationship between the United States and the Holy See, highlighting the shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity. He also had a separate meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, where they discussed mutual cooperation and pressing international issues. In recent weeks, Trump has publicly criticized the Pope, but his tone has softened. Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, both Catholics, were asked about the president's statements and how they align with their Catholic faith. Vance emphasized the importance of caution in discussions about theology, both for the president and for the pope.