Trump Criticizes Pope Leo XIV and Chicago Mayor After Vatican Meeting

President Donald Trump has issued sharp public criticism targeting Pope Leo XIV and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson following the mayor’s private audience at the Vatican. In a post on Truth Social, Trump labeled Johnson “useless” and reiterated longstanding concerns regarding the Pontiff’s diplomatic positions, particularly on Iran’s nuclear program.

“Someone should explain to the Pope that the mayor of Chicago is useless and that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump stated in the social media post. The President characterized Johnson as ineffective and connected his remarks to broader policy disagreements, including immigration and the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

The Vatican meeting brought together Pope Leo XIV, noted as the first American-born pontiff, and Mayor Johnson. According to spokespersons, discussions centered on social justice, migration, and support for vulnerable communities. Following the audience, Mayor Johnson praised Pope Leo XIV’s leadership, describing him as a powerful ally on humanitarian issues.

This latest exchange reflects a continuing pattern of public disagreements between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV. The two have previously clashed over immigration policies, approaches to international conflicts, and the role of diplomacy in addressing global crises.

While the Vatican has consistently emphasized dialogue, peace, and humanitarian concerns in its public statements, the White House has defended its positions on national security and immigration enforcement. The dispute highlights growing tensions between the Trump administration and the Vatican as both institutions maintain sharply different positions on several of the world’s most pressing issues.