Trump resumes attacks against Pope Leo, in the context of tensions with the Vatican ahead of Marco Rubio's visit.

Donald Trump launched an attack on Pope Leo XIV, accusing him that his stance towards Iran endangers Catholics.

The criticisms come ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to the Vatican, aimed at easing relations between Washington and the Vatican. Trump stated that the Pope would prefer Iran to have nuclear weapons, although the Pope has never claimed this, but has opposed war against Iran. Brian Burch, the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, emphasized that Rubio's visit aims to promote dialogue and understanding between the two parties. Rubio will also meet with Italian officials, trying to repair the damaged relations following Trump's criticisms of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

This visit coincides with the first anniversary of Leo's pontificate and comes after a series of public attacks by Trump against the Pope.