The Digest:
Pope Leo XIV has stated that he has no plans to engage in any public argument with President Donald Trump following Trump's criticism of the pontiff over his remarks on US-Iran tensions. Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Algeria for his first official visit to Africa, the pope said: "I am not a politician. I have no intention to debate with him. The message is the same: to promote peace."
Key Points:
- Trump had previously called the pope "weak" and "terrible for foreign policy."
- The pope is on an 11-day trip to Africa, his first as pontiff.
- He maintained a composed stance despite Trump's attacks.
- His focus remains on peacebuilding rather than political confrontation.
- The pope previously said God "does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war."
