Pope Leo, who became the first pontiff from the United States, described himself in an interview as “the pope who happens to be American” rather than identifying primarily with his country of origin. Speaking to NBC at a papal retreat near Rome, he articulated a nuanced relationship with the nation, acknowledging his deep personal connections while prioritizing his role as head of the global Catholic Church.
The pontiff referenced his family background to illustrate his ties to America, noting that his grandparents immigrated to the country and that his maternal lineage includes both enslaved people and slave owners. When discussing what he valued about the United States, Leo highlighted principles including freedom, opportunity, and the nation’s historical openness to immigrants from around the world. He stated that despite growing up in the country and spending formative years there, he continued to embrace these ideals even as his responsibilities expanded globally.
Leo has taken several public positions regarding American policy matters since his election last year. He has been vocal in criticizing the immigration policies of the Trump administration, characterizing them as “inhuman.” Additionally, the pontiff condemned the military conflict between the United States and Israel against Iran. On the occasion of the country’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, he delivered remarks praising America’s historical treatment of migrants while calling on citizens to uphold the document’s stated principles.
The pontiff marked Independence Day with a visit to Lampedusa, an island off southern Italy that serves as a major entry point for people crossing the Mediterranean from North Africa. Regarding potential diplomatic visits, Leo indicated that no White House trip had been scheduled, though he expressed interest in traveling to the United States in the future. Vice President JD Vance had extended an invitation during a Vatican meeting following the pontiff’s inaugural papal mass.
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