US Vice President JD Vance recently had a private meeting with Pope Francis at the Pope’s residence in Vatican City, Casa Santa Marta. The meeting occurred amidst tensions between the Vatican and the Trump administration regarding immigration policies and cuts to international aid. Details of the meeting have not been disclosed, as Pope Francis has been recovering from double pneumonia. During his visit to Rome, Mr. Vance also met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s top officials. Discussions between the two sides focused on international conflicts, migrants, and prisoners, with the Vatican expressing satisfaction with the Trump administration’s commitment to protecting freedom of religion and conscience.

Notably, Mr. Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, has used medieval-era Catholic teaching to justify the immigration crackdown. In response, Pope Francis criticized the theological concept employed by Mr. Vance and referred to the Trump administration’s deportation plans as a “disgrace.” Despite this criticism, Mr. Vance has affirmed his stance and expressed his dedication to defending his beliefs. While he has previously criticized Pope Francis on social media, he has recently shown support by posting prayers for the pontiff’s recovery. This meeting between JD Vance and Pope Francis underscores the ongoing dialogue between political leaders and the Vatican on pressing global issues, highlighting the intersection of religion, politics, and social justice.