Pope Leo XIV Sends Subtle Message to Trump in First Public Remarks

In his first press conference, Pope Leo XIV—the first American to hold the papacy—delivered a message centered on respectful dialogue and the vital role of journalism. Many observers saw his words as a subtle rebuke of former President Donald Trump.

Calling for an end to the current “war of words,” the Pope urged greater empathy and active listening in public life. His remarks came just hours after Trump, without offering any evidence, claimed credit for influencing the papal election—despite the Vatican’s strict separation from politics.

Trump’s typically fiery post stood in sharp contrast to the Pope’s calm and inclusive tone.

Pope Leo XIV also paid tribute to journalists reporting from conflict zones and strongly defended the importance of a free press—another point of divergence from Trump, who frequently attacks the media.

When asked if he had a message for the American people, the Pope simply said: “Many. God bless you all.”