Pope Leo XIV addressed reporters Monday while traveling aboard the papal plane to Algeria, offering a measured and direct response to recent remarks involving President Donald Trump.
The pope emphasized that he does not view himself as a political actor and has no intention of engaging in a debate with Trump.
"I think that the people who read will be able to draw their own conclusions," he said, signaling a preference for public reflection rather than confrontation.
He reiterated that his mission is rooted in faith, not politics, stating plainly that he speaks from the Gospel rather than any ideological position.
"I am not a politician, I have no intention of entering into a debate with him," the pope repeated, underscoring his reluctance to escalate tensions.
At the same time, Pope Leo XIV firmly defended his broader message, warning against what he described as the misuse of religious teachings.
"I do not think the message of the Gospel should be abused in the way some people are doing," he said, in remarks widely interpreted as a subtle rebuke.
The pope also stressed his commitment to peace, calling for an end to global conflicts and a renewed focus on diplomacy.
"I will continue to speak out loudly against war," he declared, highlighting the Vatican's longstanding advocacy for nonviolence.
He further called for "multilateral dialogue between states," framing cooperation as essential to solving global problems.
"I am not afraid of the Trump administration," he added, pushing back against any perception that his stance might be influenced by political pressure.
Trump had posted criticism of the pope on Sunday, accusing him of overstepping into political territory and questioning his commentary on global affairs.
In that post, Trump argued that religious leaders should refrain from influencing political debates, a stance that has drawn mixed reactions from supporters and critics alike.
Trump specifically criticized the pope's opposition to the United States war on Iran and its removal of now former President Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela.
"The message of the Church is the message of the Gospel, blessed are the peacemakers," Pope Leo XIV said, reinforcing the spiritual foundation of his argument.
He concluded by noting the urgency of global suffering, adding, "Too many people are suffering in the world," as a reminder of the human stakes behind the rhetoric.
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