Pope Leo XIV has dismissed claims that his recent comments were aimed at President Donald Trump.
Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane on Saturday while traveling from Cameroon to Angola, Pope Leo said suggestions of an ongoing feud with Trump were inaccurate. He stressed that his mission in Africa is focused on faith, peace, and pastoral care — not political disputes.
The pope’s remarks come after Trump recently criticized him over comments on war and peace, accusing the Catholic leader of weakness in foreign policy. Since then, media attention has grown around a possible public clash between the two figures.
Leo said many reports were based on “commentary on commentary” and misread his speeches. He pointed to an address delivered at a prayer meeting for peace in Cameroon, saying the speech had been prepared two weeks earlier, before Trump’s comments were made.
“And yet, it was looked at as if I was trying to debate against the president, which is not in my interest at all,” the pope said.
Instead, Leo explained that his priority is to continue preaching the Gospel and promoting justice, fraternity, and peace. He added that the main purpose of his Africa trip is to encourage Catholics across the continent and strengthen the Church’s mission.
During the journey, Pope Leo also highlighted interfaith dialogue, mentioning a meeting with Muslim leaders in Cameroon. He praised the warm reception he received there, calling the experience joyful and inspiring.
Angola is the third stop on the pope’s multi-nation Africa tour, following visits to Algeria and Cameroon.
With global attention on religion and politics, Pope Leo made clear that his focus remains spiritual leadership, not political confrontation.
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