Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump against Pope Leo, calling the criticism “unacceptable” in a rare public rebuke that highlights growing political tension across Italy.
Meloni’s statement came after Trump described the pope as “terrible” during a lengthy tirade and later posted an AI-generated image portraying himself as a Jesus-like figure, drawing backlash from Christians who viewed the post as blasphemous.
The pope, spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Catholics, responded firmly, saying he had “no fear” of the Trump administration and would continue speaking out against the U.S.-led war with Iran and in defense of migrants.
Meloni initially expressed support for the pontiff without directly addressing Trump, prompting criticism from opposition figures who accused her of avoiding confrontation. She later clarified her stance, emphasizing that it is both “right and normal” for the pope to advocate for peace and condemn war.
The controversy underscores the political risks for Meloni, who has maintained close ties with Trump and was the only European leader to attend his 2025 inauguration. However, with public opinion in Italy increasingly critical of Trump, analysts say the alliance could pose domestic challenges.
Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini also distanced himself from Trump, noting that attacking the pope, widely regarded as a global voice for peace was neither “wise nor helpful.”
Former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi went further, calling the remarks an unprecedented affront to the papacy and urging both Catholics and non-believers to defend the pontiff, whom he described as a “builder of bridges.”
The incident reflects broader unease in Europe, where even right-wing leaders are increasingly cautious about aligning too closely with Trump amid shifting public sentiment.
