U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance Meets Pope Amid Tensions Over U.S. Immigration Policy
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance visited the Vatican on Saturday, where his motorcade remained for a total of 17 minutes, according to media reports.
During the visit, Vance held talks with the Vatican’s top diplomat, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of growing strain between Washington and Pope Francis, particularly over President Donald Trump’s controversial mass deportation strategy.
Vatican officials described the encounter between Vance and Pope Francis as a “cordial conversation,” according to an official statement. The two leaders exchanged views on pressing global issues, especially the plight of nations impacted by war, political instability, and humanitarian crises. Special attention was given to the challenges facing migrants, refugees, and prisoners.
Earlier this year, in February, Pope Francis addressed the U.S. bishops in a sharply worded letter expressing concern over America’s immigration policies. He called on them to uphold the “infinite and transcendent dignity of every human person” and reminded them of Jesus Christ’s own experience as an exile.
The pontiff’s uncertain health continues to stir speculation over the future of the Catholic Church’s leadership, with increasing signs of division among cardinals over who should succeed him.
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