Rubio Meets Pope Leo Amid Tensions Over Trump Remarks

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Thursday in talks focused on diplomacy, the Middle East, religious freedom, and humanitarian aid. The visit came after days of criticism from President Donald Trump, who has attacked the pope over Leo’s comments opposing the war in Iran and rejecting claims that he supports nuclear weapons for Iran. Rubio tried to present the meeting as part of a previously planned trip and emphasized the broader U.S.Vatican relationship. According to the Vatican and the State Department, the two discussed peace, human dignity, and areas of possible cooperation such as aid to Cuba. Rubio is also set to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as Trump’s comments have strained relations with some of Washington’s allies in Europe.