Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep concern over U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent immigration and travel policies, describing them as emblematic of a broader trend toward nationalist isolationism in the United States.
The pontiff, originally from Chicago, delivered his remarks during the Pentecost homily on Sunday before a crowd of approximately 80,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Though he avoided naming specific leaders, his words appeared to be a clear critique of the Trump administration’s actions.
Just days before the papal address, the U.S. government had unveiled sweeping entry restrictions affecting 19 countries. Twelve of those—including Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen—were subject to complete bans, while others such as Venezuela, Cuba, and Sierra Leone faced partial limitations.
During his sermon, Pope Leo—formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost—addressed the rise of political nationalism and exclusionary rhetoric. His message, widely covered by GB News, included a strong rebuke of divisions created under the pretext of security: “We must reject prejudice, the ‘security’ zones that isolate us from our fellow human beings, and the exclusionary mindset that, unfortunately, we now see emerging in today’s political nationalisms.”
This was Pope Leo’s first Pentecost celebration since his election on May 8, which followed the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
At 69, Leo XIV became the first American pope, having spent time as a missionary in Peru and possessing familial roots linked to Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Creole Louisiana.
The Pope’s disapproval of President Trump’s policies is not new. Back in May 2025, shortly after Trump assumed office, Leo XIV addressed ambassadors to the Holy See and voiced his opposition to new deportation policies. As reported by Reuters, he reflected on his own personal history:
“My own story is that of a citizen, the descendant of immigrants, who in turn chose to emigrate”, according to Inquisitr News.
He also spoke eloquently on the theme of human dignity:
“At different points in our lives, we may find ourselves healthy or sick, employed or unemployed, living in our native land or in a foreign country—yet our dignity remains intact. It is the dignity of a being willed and loved by God.”
He emphasized that dignity is inherent and must be recognized for all people, especially those who are marginalized or vulnerable.
While Pope Francis also frequently criticized Donald Trump—particularly on immigration—his tenure was marked by more progressive decisions in other areas, including the controversial move to allow blessings for same-sex couples. Neither Trump nor Pope Leo XIV has publicly supported that measure.
In contrast, Leo XIV has signaled a return to more traditional Catholic teachings. He draws inspiration from Church Fathers and earlier papal doctrines, standing in contrast to the more liberal tendencies seen during the Francis era, which many observers associate with the social movements of the 1970s.
By addressing pressing global issues through the lens of Catholic doctrine—without directly naming political figures—Pope Leo XIV is positioning himself as a defender of both spiritual values and diplomatic nuance. His comments offer a moral critique that transcends partisanship while clearly engaging with the political realities of our time.
