Pope Leo expressed concern on Friday over the tensions affecting the relationship between the United States and Canada, likely referring to President Donald Trump’s recent decision to halt trade negotiations between the two countries. Speaking at a gathering in the Vatican, Leo, the first American pope, highlighted the current challenges faced by both nations, noting a shift from their historically strong alliance. It is uncommon for the head of the 1.4-billion-member Catholic Church to address trade issues or specific political matters in any single nation.
In a discussion focused on potential reforms within the global Church, the pontiff responded to a query from a Canadian bishop, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogues, such as the synodal process, as valuable tools for addressing societal issues. While Leo has not directly criticized Trump’s trade policies before, he has increasingly voiced disapproval of the administration’s treatment of migrants, sparking criticism from certain conservative Catholic circles. Leo’s remarks underscored the significance of fostering open communication and understanding, suggesting that the synodal approach could offer valuable insights for improving relations between the U.S. and Canada.