Pope Leo XIV said on April 13 that he will continue to speak out strongly against war, emphasizing that his role is to preach the Gospel rather than engage in political disputes. The pope made these remarks while speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight to Algiers, responding to a question about a post by U.S. President Donald Trump.
“I think people who read it will be able to draw their own conclusions. I am not a politician, and I have no intention of entering into a debate with him,” Pope Leo XIV said.
He explained that he would remain outspoken in condemning war and promoting peace. “I have no fear neither of the Trump administration nor of speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel,” he said in comments to another journalist. “That’s what I believe I am called to do and what the Church is called to do. Weʼre not politicians. Weʼre not looking to make foreign policy, as [Trump] calls it, with the same perspective that he might understand it.”
The pope stressed his belief in spreading messages of peace: “But I do believe that the message of the Gospel, ‘blessed are the peacemakers,’ is a message that the world needs to hear today.”
Reflecting on his trip to Algeria, Pope Leo XIV described it as both personally meaningful and important for fostering dialogue between religions. “As you know, I am very happy to visit once again the land of St. Augustine,” he said, noting that St. Augustine offers “a very important bridge in interreligious dialogue” and remains beloved in his homeland.
The pope stated that visiting sites associated with St. Augustine’s life would allow him an opportunity for reflection and connection with history: “Today is truly a blessing for me personally, but I believe also for the Church and for the world, because we must always seek bridges in order to build peace and reconciliation.” He added that this trip is “a most precious opportunity” for continuing efforts toward peace: “We want to promote peace, reconciliation, and respect and consideration for all peoples.”
He concluded by thanking journalists traveling with him: “Welcome, everyone. I am happy to greet you,” Pope Leo XIV said. “Have a good trip, and thank you for the service you offer to all the people.”
