SouthernWorldwide.com – U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Thursday to discuss the ongoing situation in the Middle East and other significant topics.
This high-level meeting occurred amidst a backdrop of heightened tension that had developed over several weeks between the American pontiff and President Trump. The State Department confirmed the meeting through spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
Pigott stated that the discussion focused on the Middle East situation and areas of mutual interest within the Western Hemisphere. He further emphasized that the meeting served to highlight the robust relationship between the United States and the Holy See.
Both parties, according to Pigott, reaffirmed their shared dedication to fostering peace and upholding human dignity on a global scale. This shared commitment was a central theme of the discussions.
Read more: Apple akan mengembalikan sebagian uang Anda dari penyelesaian $250 juta.
Pope Leo XIV and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Vatican
Secretary Rubio, who is known for his strong Catholic faith, also held a separate meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. This engagement was also detailed by spokesperson Pigott.
During his meeting with Cardinal Parolin, the discussions revolved around “mutual cooperation and pressing international issues.” A significant portion of their conversation focused on ongoing efforts to establish a lasting peace in the Middle East.
These Vatican engagements follow a period marked by considerable public exchanges between President Trump and Pope Leo. The friction between the two leaders reportedly intensified following a segment on the television program “60 Minutes.”
The “60 Minutes” report had brought attention to the Pope’s criticisms regarding the war in Iran. This coverage appears to have exacerbated the existing tensions and contributed to the more direct criticisms leveled by President Trump against the pontiff.
© 2026 CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved.
