Republican Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana, close to Donald Trump, criticizes the president's attacks on Pope Leo XIII, calling the dispute a 'useless holy war'.

Senator John Kennedy, a supporter of Donald Trump, publicly criticized his attacks on Pope Leo XIV, calling the dispute an unnecessary 'holy war.' His statements come amid escalating tensions between Trump and the Sovereign Pontiff, in the context of the conflict in the Middle East. Kennedy stated in an interview with Fox News that, although he respects Trump, he disagrees with his attacks on the Pope, emphasizing the importance of respect for Catholicism and the Pope's right to have his own opinion. The dispute escalated after the Pope criticized Trump's threats against Iran, calling his remarks 'unacceptable.' Trump responded by calling the Pope 'weak' regarding crime and foreign policy. In this context, Kennedy emphasized that attacks on the Pope are a distraction and urged a focus on real issues. Pope Leo stated that he does not intend to debate with Trump, but that he is not afraid of his administration.