The Vatican and the Pentagon have refuted a report claiming that a meeting in January between a U.S.-based cardinal and a member of Donald Trump’s administration turned contentious. The Pentagon clarified that Elbridge Colby, the undersecretary of defense for policy, engaged in a “respectful and reasonable discussion” with Cardinal Christophe Pierre on Jan. 22, denouncing recent reporting as “grossly false and distorted.”
The Free Press reported that Pierre was “summoned” by the White House following comments by U.S.-born Pope Leo XIV. The meeting was portrayed as a “bitter lecture warning that the United States has the military power to do whatever it wants,” according to the report, citing Vatican officials who spoke anonymously.
In a statement to reporters in Italian, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni characterized the meeting as “an exchange of views on matters of mutual interest” and dismissed media narratives as untrue.
Catholic news agencies highlighted Leo’s Jan. 9 address as a call for multilateralism and adherence to international law. Leo expressed concern about the proliferation of warlike tendencies, emphasizing the erosion of post-World War II principles prohibiting the use of force to violate sovereign borders.
The U.S. administration, with close ties to conservative evangelical Protestant leaders, has attributed divine approval to Trump’s actions in the conflict with Iran. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, associated with fundamentalist Christian preacher Douglas Wilson, has invoked religious references in discussing military operations.
Leo’s statements have underscored a contrasting view, emphasizing the rejection of prayers for war and advocating negotiation as the path to peace. Despite Trump’s praise for Leo’s election, there is no record of direct communication between them, reflecting differing approaches to faith and governance.
Leo’s upcoming African tour, including multiple speeches across several countries, contrasts with the absence of plans for U.S. visits in the near term. Leo’s stance on immigration issues, aligned with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, underscores a commitment to justice and humane treatment for migrants.
As Leo embarks on his African journey, the political implications of any potential U.S. visit remain under scrutiny, particularly amidst the upcoming midterm elections. Leo’s global engagements underscore his diplomatic efforts and commitment to promoting peace and dialogue in various regions.