Rubio meets Pope Leo XIV to discuss peace and human dignity

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has arrived at the Vatican to meet Pope Leo XIV in what is seen as an attempt to repair relations after President Donald Trump’s repeated barbs against the pontiff.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he met with Pope Leo XIV to reaffirm their shared commitment to promoting peace and protecting human dignity.

Rubio shared the update following the meeting, highlighting the importance of continued cooperation on global humanitarian and peace-building efforts.

The meeting comes amid recent tensions between the Vatican and U.S. President Donald Trump over issues related to immigration, global conflicts, and humanitarian policies.

Pope Leo XIV has recently emphasized the need for compassion toward migrants and stronger international solidarity, positions that have at times contrasted with Trump’s hardline political approach.

Despite these differences, both Washington and the Vatican have continued diplomatic engagement on matters concerning peace, religious freedom, and international stability.

Related

Ibuka criticizes French court decision to close Bisesero case

The President of Ibuka, Dr. Philbert Gakwenzire, has criticized a decision by France’s highest court to close a case involving French soldiers accused of failing to protect Tutsi victims who had sought refuge in the Bisesero hills during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Kagame joins global leaders at Paris space summit

Rwandan President Paul Kagame is in Paris for the first International Space Summit, where world leaders and space industry representatives are meeting to discuss the future of space cooperation.