U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with the Vatican's number two amid tensions over Donald Trump's mass deportations. The Vatican reaffirmed its good relationship with the White House, emphasizing that there was an exchange of views on current international conflicts, migrants, and prisoners.
In the meeting with the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Foreign Minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, JD Vance discussed topics such as their shared religious faith, Catholicism in the United States, and President Trump's commitment to restoring world peace. It is still unknown whether Vance greeted Pope Francis, who is recovering from pneumonia.
The Vatican has maintained a cautious stance towards the Trump administration, upholding its tradition of diplomatic neutrality. In a letter to U.S. bishops, Francis appeared to respond directly to Vance regarding his claims about Catholic doctrine that would justify certain policies. The Pope has expressed his concern over the repression of migrants, cuts to international aid, and has advocated for peaceful solutions to conflicts such as those in Ukraine and Gaza.
In the statement issued by the Vatican after the meeting, it was highlighted that the discussions were cordial and satisfaction was expressed with the government's commitment to protect freedom of worship and conscience. Special emphasis was placed on the international situation, particularly in countries affected by conflicts and in the difficult humanitarian situations of migrants, refugees, and prisoners.
Regarding the differences between Pope Francis and JD Vance, disagreements have emerged on issues such as immigration and the deportation of migrants. While the Pope has emphasized attention to migrants as an essential part of his work, Vance and the Trump administration have followed a stricter line in this regard.
