Donald Trump Criticizes Pope Leo, Calls Him ‘Too Liberal’ on Crime and Nuclear Issues

In a sharp and controversial statement, Donald Trump has publicly criticized Pope Leo, accusing him of being “too liberal” and weak on issues related to crime and global security. Speaking candidly, Trump said he is “not a big fan” of the Pope, alleging that the religious leader is soft on crime and indifferent toward the dangers posed by nuclear weapons. Trump remarked, “I don't think he's doing a very good job… we don't want a pope that says crime is okay in our cities.”

Reporter: Why did you attack Pope Leo?

PRESIDENT TRUMP: I don't think he's doing a very good job. He likes crime, I guess. He hit us. Think of it. He's worried about fear.

What about the fear when the ministers and the priests and the all of those great people that were… pic.twitter.com/fEllpWyKgd

— Donald J Trump Posts TruthSocial (@TruthTrumpPost) April 13, 2026

The U.S. President also referenced actions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic, criticizing the arrest of religious figures during restrictions. He argued that such measures reflected misplaced priorities and raised concerns about religious freedom. Trump further claimed that the Pope’s stance on nuclear threats is troubling, stating that global leaders should not be “toying with a country that wants a nuclear weapon so they can blow up the world.” The remarks are likely to stir political and religious debate, as tensions between conservative political figures and liberal sections within global religious leadership continue to surface.