US Secretary of State Rubio met with Pope Leo. As the first American pope, Leo has drawn criticism from the Trump administration for his firm opposition to the Iran war and hardline immigration policies. The meeting is seen as an effort to ease tensions between Washington and the Vatican.

Source: BBC World

The Guardian reported that Pope Leo has explicitly rejected claims that he supports nuclear weapons, creating a public disagreement with President Trump on the issue.

Trump had previously claimed publicly that the Pope held a supportive stance toward nuclear weapons and had made a series of critical remarks. The Vatican swiftly denied the claim, stating that the Holy See has consistently opposed the use and proliferation of nuclear weapons.

US Secretary of State Rubio is reportedly planning a trip to Rome for follow-up diplomatic engagement on the matter. Analysts suggest this dispute reflects not only a policy disagreement on nuclear weapons but also broader tensions between the US administration and the Vatican on international issues.

Since taking office, Pope Leo has maintained a clear anti-nuclear stance on disarmament and non-proliferation. He has repeatedly called for the global elimination of nuclear weapons, arguing that their mere existence poses a threat to human security.

This public disagreement comes amid heightened US-Iran tensions, further complicating the international diplomatic landscape.

Pope Leo has previously made public comments on the Iran issue, expressing concern for regional peace and stability. This meeting is seen as an effort by the Vatican to play a mediating role amid escalating USIran tensions.

The Trump administration and the Vatican hold clearly different positions on Iran. The Pope favors diplomatic resolution of disputes, while the Trump administration has taken a more assertive military stance, announcing US naval escorts for ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts believe Rubios visit aims to explain the US position to the Vatican while seeking the Popes support for a peaceful resolution to the dispute.