Trump Criticizes Pope Leo XIV in Late-Night Post Amid AI-Generated Image Controversy

Former U.S. President Donald Trump launched a late-night post on Truth Social sharply criticizing Pope Leo XIV, calling him “weak” on crime and “terrible” on foreign policy. The post also included an AI-generated image depicting Trump in a Jesus-like role healing a patient.

According to the post, Trump reacted to recent comments made by Pope Leo XIV, who had condemned Trump’s warnings about Iran, calling such rhetoric “unacceptable” and warning that a “delusion of omnipotence” may be contributing to global conflict. The Pope also reaffirmed his commitment to speaking out for peace, saying he would continue advocating for dialogue and an end to violence during an upcoming trip to Africa.

In his statement, Trump also made personal remarks about the Pope and suggested he preferred the Pope’s brother, describing him as more aligned with MAGA ideology. He further claimed the Church’s leadership decisions were influenced by political considerations related to his presidency.

Shortly after the remarks, Trump posted an AI-generated image showing himself in a religious healing scene, which sparked criticism from several public figures.

Among the critics was former Trump ally Marjorie Taylor Greene, who condemned the post and said she was “praying against it,” calling the timing and content inappropriate.

Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, also responded, expressing disappointment. He emphasized that Pope Leo XIV should not be viewed as a political rival but as a spiritual leader focused on moral guidance and care for souls.