In an exclusive interview, Pope Francis condemned Donald Trump's proposed plan to expel undocumented immigrants from the US, labeling it a "disgrace." Speaking from his Vatican residence, the Pope emphasized that implementing such plans would unjustly penalize "poor wretches" who are already suffering. He argued that this approach fails to address the root problems causing migration.
Trump's administration has pledged to initiate the largest deportation effort in US history shortly after his inauguration. The Pope has historically underscored the significance of compassion towards migrants, previously describing the systemic efforts to remove them as "a grave sin." He has also warned that focusing solely on building walls, instead of fostering connections, betrays fundamental Christian values.
During Trump’s visit to Rome in 2017, the two met, yet their differing views on immigration remain evident. In light of the 2024 presidential election, the Pope refrained from endorsing either Trump or Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, instead encouraging voters to weigh their options carefully.
Further discussing migration in Europe, Pope Francis acknowledged the harsh realities many face, while also recognizing the demographic challenges in southern European countries that host significant migrant populations. He pointed out that some of these nations experience declining birth rates and may benefit from a well-structured migration policy.
Addressing broader global conflicts, Francis expressed his confusion over the persistence of violence in places like Ukraine and the Middle East, remarking, "It's as if there was an international drive towards self-destruction." Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis, now 88, has remained a vocal advocate for humanitarian migration policies and peaceful resolutions to global conflicts.
