Leo says ‘not in my interest’ to debate Trump

WorldPolitics
19 Apr 2026 • 3:44 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Pope Leo XIV declared he has no interest in debating Donald Trump about the Iran war, but will persist in preaching his Gospel message of peace.
  • The Pope addressed the ongoing public discussion surrounding Trump's criticisms of his peace message while aboard a flight during his 11-day tour of Africa.
  • Trump had criticised Pope Leo on Truth Social on 12 April, accusing him of being soft and suggesting his election was owed to Trump, amidst the raging Iran war.
  • Pope Leo clarified that his remarks on peace, including those made in Cameroon, were prepared weeks in advance and are part of a broader Gospel message, not specifically directed at Trump.
  • The Vatican has emphasised that Pope Leo's calls for peace encompass all global conflicts, and his current visit to Angola highlights the relevance of his message in a country recovering from civil war.

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