Pope Leo rips those who ‘manipulate religion’ amid feud with Trump

The Hill
April 16, 2026
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2 min read

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Pope Leo XIV criticized those who manipulate religion for political gain amid a feud with President Trump.

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Pope Leo XIV on Thursday criticized those who “manipulate religion” for political and military gain. The pontiff's remarks were made in Cameroon and come amid an ongoing feud with President Trump. Pope Leo XIV specifically condemned those who "manipulate religion and the very name of God" for their own military, economic, and political purposes. This public statement from the head of the Catholic Church directly addresses the President in a period of strained relations between the two leaders.

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