The exchange follows Trump’s repeated remarks about the Pope, including claims that he believes Iran having a nuclear weapon is acceptable.

The Pope has not made such a statement, but has opposed the US and Israel’s war on Iran, drawing criticism from the US President.

Speaking earlier this week, Pope Leo said his mission remains focused on peace.

“The mission of the Church is to preach the Gospel, to preach peace,” he said, adding that if he is criticised for it, he hopes to still be heard “because of the value of God’s words.”

The comments come as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio travels to the Vatican for a two-day visit.

The US State Department said the trip will focus on bilateral relations, the Middle East situation, and other shared interests with Italy and the Vatican.

Rubio denied the visit was intended to ease tensions between Trump and the Vatican, saying it was planned earlier and would include broader diplomatic discussions.

Despite the public disagreement, US ambassador to the Holy See Brian Burch said there was no “deep rift” between Washington and the Vatican, adding that dialogue would help address differences.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also weighed in, defending the Pope and criticising aspects of the Middle East conflict.

Trump has escalated his criticism, calling Pope Leo “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” while also claiming the Church chose him because he is American.

He further posted and later removed an image portraying himself in a Jesus-like figure, which he said was meant to show him “as a doctor.”

US Vice-President JD Vance defended Trump, saying the Vatican should focus on matters of morality.