On Monday, Pope Leo XIV welcomed U.S. Vice President JD Vance for a pivotal closed-door meeting at the Vatican, marking their first private discussion since Leo’s election. The timing was significant, as relations between the papacy and the White House have faced strains over topics like immigration and theology. Just days prior, Pope Leo expressed the church’s intent to mediate global conflicts, echoing discussions he had with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky following his inaugural Mass.
After his conversation with the pope, Vance engaged in a view-exchange dialogue with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister. Their meeting was reported as "cordial," reaffirming "good bilateral relations" and stressing respect for international humanitarian law amidst ongoing global tensions.
Many in the American conservative sphere are optimistic about this engagement, hoping it signals a fresh start with the Vatican. In contrast, previous Pontiff Francis often found himself at odds with Republican figures, especially former President Trump, over various policies. The outcome of this meeting may suggest a shift towards more amicable relations between U.S. leaders and the Holy See.
After his conversation with the pope, Vance engaged in a view-exchange dialogue with Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister. Their meeting was reported as "cordial," reaffirming "good bilateral relations" and stressing respect for international humanitarian law amidst ongoing global tensions.
Many in the American conservative sphere are optimistic about this engagement, hoping it signals a fresh start with the Vatican. In contrast, previous Pontiff Francis often found himself at odds with Republican figures, especially former President Trump, over various policies. The outcome of this meeting may suggest a shift towards more amicable relations between U.S. leaders and the Holy See.
