Tensions are quietly building between US President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV, with sharp differences emerging over Venezuela and immigration, raising questions about a deeper ideological clash between the White House and the Vatican.
A subtle but significant rift appears to be emerging between US President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV, with Venezuela and immigration becoming early flashpoints.
While the clash has so far remained measured, recent statements and decisions suggest a broader ideological divide taking shape between the White House and the Vatican.
Venezuela sovereignty sparks tensions
The latest friction surfaced after Trump suggested that the US could effectively “run” Venezuela following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and Washington’s takeover of the country’s governance. Shortly afterwards, Pope Leo XIV publicly called for the safeguarding of Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Addressing the faithful during his Sunday prayer in St Peter’s Square, the Chicago-born pontiff urged that the interests of the Venezuelan people be placed above all else.
STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
“The good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over every other consideration,” Leo said, calling for an end to violence and a path towards justice and peace. He emphasised the need to protect the country’s sovereignty, uphold constitutional rule of law, respect human and civil rights, and work collectively towards stability and harmony, with particular concern for the poorest affected by the economic crisis.
The pope also asked those present to pray for the people of Venezuela. His remarks were widely interpreted as a direct rebuke of Washington’s stance.
Trump’s unusually cautious response
Despite the criticism, Trump has responded with uncharacteristic restraint. Known for sharply attacking critics, the US president has avoided direct confrontation with the first American pope.
The caution is largely political. Catholics make up a significant share of Trump’s core electorate, limiting his appetite for an open clash with the Vatican and forcing a more measured response to papal criticism.
Immigration emerges as a deeper fault line
Beyond Venezuela, immigration has become the most pronounced area of disagreement. In recent months, Pope Leo has urged senior clergy to speak out in defence of vulnerable migrants. US bishops echoed the message, condemning what they described as the “dehumanising rhetoric and violence” associated with Trump’s deportation policies.
Leo later made a public appeal that migrants in the US be treated “humanely” and “with dignity”, firmly p