US Ambassador sees common ground between Trump and Pope Leo XIV

U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican Brian Burch has highlighted surprising commonalities between Pope Leo XIV and former President Donald Trump, suggesting that their perceived differences may be less significant than often portrayed. In a conversation with Italian media, as reported by Kathpress, Burch indicated that while divergences exist, particularly on aligning U.S. policy with the Church's social doctrine, the crucial question is whether their objectives can be reconciled.

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There are divergences, especially on the question of how U.S. policy is compatible with the Church's social doctrine.

Burch emphasized that Pope Leo XIV is "deeply American" and holds respect for his homeland. He expressed hope for improved cooperation where differences arise. The ambassador also shared details of a unique dinner at his residence on July 4th, marking the first time in over a century a Pope has visited an ambassador for such a meal. During this meeting, the Pope reportedly conveyed that many of his actions are mistakenly interpreted as criticism of the United States.

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The crucial question is not whether the two become friends, but whether what the president is trying to achieve can be reconciled with what the Pope wishes for the world.

This sentiment extended to the Pope's visit to the refugee island of Lampedusa, which preceded his meeting with Burch. The Pope assured the ambassador that the visit was not directed against the U.S., despite interpretations by many commentators. Regarding migration, Burch clarified that the Pope does not advocate for disregarding national laws but emphasizes humanitarian principles when commenting on the application of U.S. laws concerning undocumented immigrants.

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He is deeply American, he loves and respects his homeland.

While there has been no direct phone call between Trump and Pope Leo XIV, Burch confirmed an ongoing channel of communication. He suggested that both leaders were elected to address complex global challenges. Burch also commented on Trump's past verbal attacks on the Pope, stating that criticism is permissible against a head of state, but reiterated that more similarities exist between Trump and the Pope than commonly believed.

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much of what he does is mistakenly interpreted as criticism of the USA.