Donald Trump has never held back while speaking. And the former U.S. president managed to stir up controversy once more as the world gets ready to say goodbye to Pope Francis this Saturday.
Trump revealed his intention to attend the Pope’s funeral in a statement that immediately sparked criticism on social media, but the announcement itself didn’t make news. It was his manner of speaking.
Following Pope Francis’s death on April 21, Donald Trump, like many other international leaders, quickly expressed his sorrow. On his social media account, Truth Social, the U.S. president posted a brief comment, writing: “May Pope Francis rest in peace! God bless him and everyone who cared for him.
Through his Truth Social platform Trump declared that U.S. flags should be lowered to half-staff to demonstrate respect for “the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis.”
Inside their relationship
The initial connexion between Donald Trump and Pope Francis began with mutual respect but their relationship later became strained.
Trump expressed complete admiration for Pope Francis when he became the pontiff in 2013 before Trump became president. The new Pope shares my humble nature which makes me appreciate him greatly. Trump posted this tweet during December 2013. Trump delivered this statement which combined a flattering statement with promotional elements that were typical of his style.
But the honeymoon didn’t last.
The increasing fame of both leaders brought out their growing disagreements. The initial praise between Trump and Pope Francis transformed into a tense relationship that stands out as one of the most peculiar interactions between a U.S. president and the Catholic Church leader.
The public appearances of Trump and Pope Francis revealed substantial differences between them regarding immigration policies and social justice matters.
During his 2016 meeting with Trump the Pope declared that anyone focused solely on wall construction instead of bridge development cannot be considered Christian. Trump responded in his characteristic manner by describing it as “disgraceful” for a religious leader to challenge someone’s faith.
Face-to-face meeting
The meeting between the two leaders took place when Trump visited the Vatican in 2017. Trump described the meeting by saying “He is something.” We had a fantastic meeting.”
But the tensions didn’t fade. The two leaders maintained their political differences throughout Trump’s first term as president and his second presidential period beginning in 2025. Pope Francis criticised the recent efforts to deport large numbers of people by calling them a “disgrace” while warning that policies based on force instead of human dignity will fail in both their start and their conclusion.
Trump delivered a brief farewell speech yet other leaders chose to share more reflective messages. Vice President JD Vance expressed his heartfelt tribute on X about the passing of Pope Francis. He noted that he had met with the Pontiff shortly before his death. My deepest sympathy extends to all Christians worldwide who cherished him.
Vance remembered their last encounter with the Pope who appeared sick but left a lasting impression through his early COVID homily which Vance would never forget. It was really quite beautiful. May God rest his soul.”
A wine tasting in Vatican City?
Donald Trump and his wife Melania will participate in the Pope’s funeral while marking the president’s inaugural international journey during his second presidential term.
The announcement itself about Trump’s attendance at the funeral became the main focus because of his delivery method. Trump declared through his statement “Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome.” The president expressed his anticipation to attend the event.
Users on X (formerly Twitter) immediately criticised President Trump for his insensitive remarks about the upcoming funeral. People reacted with both humorous sarcasm and intense criticism. A social media user joked about the president’s Coachella-like attitude toward the funeral and another person directly asked who would actually look forward to attending a funeral.
These words stand out as unusual for a funeral announcement. Users on X platform expressed their disapproval by stating that people mourn the Pope instead of treating his funeral like a wine tasting event at Vatican City.
The Vatican announced that Pope Francis’ funeral service will occur on Saturday April 26 at 10 AM local time within St. Peter’s Square.
His body will be moved from the public ceremony to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore located in Rome’s Esquilino district which Francis had previously chosen as his final resting place.
What do you think about the president’s choice of words? Was it inappropriate, or is it more important that he attends and demonstrates respect? Feel free to leave your ideas in the comments!
