Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Monday stood by Pope Leo XIV following recent verbal attacks from former U.S. President Donald Trump. During her morning press conference at the National Palace, the president defended the pontiff's position against accusations of political interference.
Sheinbaum stated that the Pope maintains a constant call for world peace and non-intervention in the affairs of other nations. The head of state described these statements as a "deeply Christian position" aimed at seeking global stability.
"The Pope has been calling for peace continuously, something that we celebrate," the president noted. Sheinbaum emphasized that the pontiff acts not only as the leader of the Catholic Church but also as a representative of a sovereign state.
Donald Trump’s Offensive
The Mexican president's response comes in the wake of statements by Donald Trump, who labeled Pope Leo XIV "weak on crime and terrible on foreign policy." The former U.S. president used social media to accuse the Church leader of prioritizing a "radical left" agenda over the interests of Christians in the United States.
Trump also criticized the Vatican for its stance on migration and international conflicts. The American politician claimed that the Pope "forgets the families suffering because of illegal immigration and crime."
The conflict escalated when Trump posted an image of himself in biblical attire, hinting at a messianic role and reiterating that the Pope does not represent his country's values. The former president maintains that the Vatican is turning its back on the real problems facing the American people.
For his part, Pope Leo XIV responded from a pastoral visit, asserting that he does not fear Trump's criticism. The pontiff defended his pacifist stance, maintaining that his opposition to violence is an essential element of the Christian message.
Tensions between the two leaders are deepening against a backdrop of crisis involving the war in Iran and pressure on the Church to align itself with the immigration policies of the U.S. administration.
