US Intelligence Reportedly Targeting Vatican Following Pope's Criticism of Trump

Recent reports from independent investigative journalist Ken Klippenstein suggest a significant escalation in United States intelligence activities targeting the Vatican. According to Klippenstein's findings, cited by Al Mayadeen, agencies such as the CIA and NSA have been engaged in prolonged surveillance of the Holy See, with operations intensifying notably after Pope Leo XIV publicly criticized President Donald Trump.

The alleged surveillance predates the current US administration but has reportedly been amplified following Trump's remarks on April 12th, where he characterized the Pope as detrimental to US foreign policy. Elements within the US intelligence community are said to have interpreted Trump's comments as a directive to enhance information gathering on the Vatican's internal affairs.

These intelligence efforts reportedly encompass both digital and human sources. The CIA and NSA are accused of attempting to intercept communications connected to the Holy See, including emails and telecommunications. Furthermore, the US government is said to maintain human intelligence assets within the Vatican's administrative structure, regularly circulating intelligence summaries on Vatican matters.

To support their analyses, US government agencies allegedly deploy personnel proficient in specialized languages, including ecclesiastical Latin. This focus on linguistic capabilities underscores the depth and breadth of the alleged US intelligence operation directed at the Vatican, raising questions about diplomatic relations and international trust.