US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Pope Leo at the Vatican on Thursday amid rising political tensions linked to the Iran war. The meeting comes as President Donald Trump continues public criticism of the pope over his stance on the conflict. The visit is expected to carry diplomatic sensitivity given recent US-Vatican disagreements.
Rubio, who also serves as national security adviser, will meet the pope at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace. The closed-door discussion is scheduled to last around 30 minutes before a meeting with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin. It marks the first encounter between Pope Leo and a Trump administration official in nearly a year.
Read more: Pope Leo rejects feud narrative with Trump during Africa tour
Tensions have grown after Pope Leo criticized the US-Israeli war on Iran and US immigration policies. Trump has repeatedly attacked the pope in recent weeks, prompting concern among religious and political observers. The pope has responded by emphasizing peace and rejecting claims about supporting nuclear weapons. Vatican officials continue to stress the Church’s long-standing opposition to nuclear arms.
Rubio is expected to discuss issues including Cuba and global religious freedom during the meeting. The US ambassador to the Holy See described the upcoming conversation as likely “frank.” The visit is notable as Rubio travels without press accompaniment, which is unusual for a top US diplomat.
Read more: Pope Leo urges unity for divided Church, vows not to be ‘autocrat’
The meeting also comes as Pope Leo marks his first year leading the Catholic Church. He has recently become more vocal on global political issues during international visits. Meanwhile, Rubio is also scheduled to meet Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his two-day trip to Rome.