Highlights:
- Trump posts AI image portraying himself as a Christ-like figure
- Online users claim image resembles Jeffrey Epstein
- Trump calls Pope Leo “weak” and criticizes his policies
- Catholic bishops defend Pope, call remarks disrespectful
- Pope says he has “no fear” and refuses to engage in debate
A public feud between president Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV has intensified after Trump posted an AI-generated image of himself as a Christ-like figure and launched strong criticism of the Pope.
The image, shared on Truth Social, showed Trump dressed in robes, surrounded by bright light, appearing to heal a man while figures resembling angels or soldiers stood nearby. The post quickly went viral and drew mixed reactions online. Some users claimed the figure being healed resembled Jeffrey Epstein, adding to the controversy.
The post came shortly after Trump criticized the Pope’s leadership and views on global conflicts. He described Pope Leo as “weak” and “a very liberal person,” and said he disagreed with the Pope’s stance on issues like Iran and war.
“I don’t want a Pope who thinks it’s okay for Iran to have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.
Trump also criticized the Pope on Truth Social, accusing him of being “WEAK on Crime” and “terrible for Foreign Policy.” He added that he doesn’t “want a Pope who criticizes the President of the United States.”
“Leo should get his act together as Pope, use Common Sense, stop catering to the Radical Left, and focus on being a Great Pope, not a Politician,” Trump said.
The criticism came after Pope Leo spoke against war and warned that a “delusion of omnipotence” is driving the US-Israel conflict with Iran. While he did not name Trump directly, his comments were seen as aimed at U.S. leadership. The Pope has also called threats against civilian infrastructure “truly unacceptable.”
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops responded by defending the Pope and expressing disappointment in Trump’s remarks. Archbishop Paul S. Coakley said, “I am disheartened that the President chose to write such disparaging words about the Holy Father.” He added, “Pope Leo is not his rival; nor is the Pope a politician. He is the Vicar of Christ who speaks from the truth of the Gospel and for the care of souls.”
The AI image also drew criticism from Trump supporters. Brilyn Hollyhand called it “gross blasphemy.” Online reactions ranged from confusion to anger, with some questioning why Trump would portray himself in such a religious way.
Despite the backlash, Pope Leo appeared unfazed. Speaking to reporters, he said he had “no fear” of the Trump administration and dismissed the criticism.
“I have no intention of having a debate with him,” Leo said.
Tensions between the White House and the Vatican have been rising, especially after the U.S.-Israel actions involving Iran. The Pope has repeatedly spoken out against the conflict, calling for peace and restraint.
Bishop Robert Barron also criticized Trump’s comments. “The statements made by President Trump on Truth Social regarding the Pope were entirely inappropriate and disrespectful,” he said. He added that “the President owes the Pope an apology.”
