Italian political and religious figures have voiced strong support for Pope Leo after United States President Donald Trump drew widespread backlash for criticising the pontiff, triggering a political balancing act for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The controversy began after Trump described Pope Leo as “terrible”, prompting rare direct comments from the Vatican leader, who said he had “no fear” of the US administration and would continue speaking out against the US-led war in Iran as well as defending migrant rights.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni responded with a carefully worded statement expressing support for the Pope’s mission of peace, while avoiding any direct reference to Trump. She said she hoped the Pope’s ministry would contribute to resolving conflicts and restoring stability both within nations and internationally.
Her measured response, however, drew criticism from political opponents who accused her of avoiding confrontation with the US president due to her close political relationship with him. Critics argued that public sentiment in Italy, where many citizens reportedly view Trump negatively, is putting additional pressure on her leadership.
Left-wing politician Angelo Bonelli condemned Trump’s remarks and criticised Meloni for not openly defending the Pope, calling the US president’s comments offensive to the Catholic community. He also referenced Trump’s previous controversial social media activity involving religious imagery.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini took a more direct stance, saying that while Pope Leo is a spiritual leader to billions, attacking him was neither wise nor constructive, especially given the Pope’s consistent calls for peace.
Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi also weighed in, describing the remarks as an unprecedented attack on the papacy and urging unity in defence of the Vatican leader. He contrasted the Pope’s role as a “builder of bridges” with what he described as Trump’s divisive rhetoric.
Church figures and historians noted the sensitivity of confronting the papacy in Italy’s political landscape, highlighting centuries of historical tension between secular rulers and the Vatican. Some commentators referenced an old Italian proverb warning against opposing the Pope, suggesting such conflicts rarely end well for political figures.
Vatican officials also defended Pope Leo, with senior Church representatives suggesting that criticism from global leaders only underscores the influence of the papacy. They argued that the Pope’s voice remains significant in global debates on war, migration and morality.
The episode has intensified debate in Italy over its diplomatic alignment between the United States and the Vatican, with analysts warning that the situation could further complicate Meloni’s efforts to maintain strong ties with both Washington and Rome.
