Pope Leo reaffirms peace message after latest criticism from Trump

VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo has reaffirmed that his mission is to spread a message of peace, despite facing renewed criticism from US President Donald Trump.

Speaking on Tuesday, the Pope emphasised that the core role of the Church is to preach the Gospel and promote peace, and said he remains committed to this duty regardless of political pressure or personal attacks.

“If someone wants to criticize me for preaching the Gospel, that is their choice,” he said, adding that his hope is simply to be heard for the value of God’s words.

The comments came after Trump’s latest criticism of the pontiff, reflecting continuing tensions between the US president and the Vatican.

Pope Leo, the first American to hold the papacy, stressed that while criticism is part of public life, his focus will remain on delivering a message of peace and faith to the world.