VATICAN CITY, May 7: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the Vatican on Thursday in an effort to repair tensions between the United States and Holy See following repeated attacks by US President Donald Trump against Pope Leo XIV over the pope’s criticism of the Iran war.
Rubio first met privately with Pope Leo before holding talks with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin. According to the US State Department, discussions focused on peace efforts in the Middle East, humanitarian concerns in the Western Hemisphere and cooperation on religious freedom.
Officials described the meetings as reaffirming the “strong relationship” and “enduring partnership” between Washington and the Vatican.
The visit came after weeks of tensions triggered by Trump’s criticism of the pope on social media. Trump accused Leo of being weak on immigration, terrorism and Iran, while also suggesting the pope tolerated Iran obtaining nuclear weapons.
Leo rejected the claims, insisting he was only preaching peace and the Gospel message. Cardinal Parolin publicly defended the pope, calling Trump’s attacks “strange” and inappropriate.
Rubio attempted to explain Trump’s remarks by saying the president’s concerns stemmed from fears that Iran could acquire nuclear weapons threatening Christians and Catholics.
However, Leo reiterated that the Catholic Church has consistently opposed all nuclear weapons and condemned war.
The atmosphere appeared calmer during the Vatican meeting, where the two exchanged symbolic gifts.
Rubio gave the pope a crystal football paperweight, while Leo presented Rubio with an olive-wood pen symbolising peace.
Analysts believe Rubio’s trip was aimed at easing tensions and preserving diplomatic ties rather than securing major policy changes.
Discussions also reportedly touched on Cuba, with Rubio highlighting US humanitarian aid efforts carried out through the Catholic Church. (AP)
