Pope Leo, who became the first United States-born pontiff following his election in May, has clarified his relationship with his home country in recent remarks. During an interview with NBC at a papal retreat near Rome, he stated that he views himself primarily as the pope who leads a universal church, rather than identifying first and foremost by his American nationality. He expressed deep affection for the United States, citing principles of freedom, opportunity, and immigration that he believes define the nation.
The pontiff reflected on his personal connection to America through his family background. He noted that his grandparents were immigrants and acknowledged the complex history on his mother’s side, which included both enslaved people and enslavers. Leo spent his formative years in the United States before dedicating two decades to missionary work in Peru. He stated that he continues to uphold principles that have long characterized American identity.
Since his election, Leo has taken positions that have created tensions with the Trump administration. He has repeatedly advocated for migrants and characterized Trump’s immigration policies as “inhuman.” His criticism expanded to include strong condemnation of the US-Israeli military actions against Iran. On the eve of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Leo delivered a major address to the United States in which he praised the country’s historical openness to migrants while calling Americans to live up to the ideals contained in that founding document.
The pontiff marked Independence Day with a visit to Lampedusa, a southern Italian island that serves as a major entry point for people crossing the Mediterranean Sea from North Africa seeking refuge. Leo has not yet accepted an invitation from the Trump administration to visit the White House, which was extended by Vice President JD Vance during a Vatican meeting. The pontiff indicated to NBC that while a trip to the United States remains under consideration, no visit has been formally scheduled.
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