Trump plan to deport migrants a ‘disgrace’, says Pope

In 2016, during Trump’s first presidential campaign, the Pope’s criticism of the then-candidate was particularly pointed. Pope Francis condemned Trump’s proposal to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, asserting that anyone who focused solely on erecting barriers rather than fostering connections was “not Christian.” He further stated that if Trump had made such statements, it would be a matter of serious concern for the Christian faith. However, the Pope allowed room for doubt, suggesting that Trump’s words could have been misunderstood.

Trump and Pope Francis later met in 2017 when Trump visited Rome, though their relationship has remained a mixture of diplomacy and ideological divergence. In the lead-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the Pope refrained from publicly endorsing either Trump or his rival, Kamala Harris. Instead, Francis urged voters to make their decisions with a clear conscience, advocating for a choice that represents the “lesser evil.

”The Pope’s commentary on migration extended beyond the U.S., touching on the broader European crisis, where many southern countries like Italy and Spain face significant numbers of incoming migrants. Francis acknowledged the “cruelty” that surrounds the migration issue, stating that “everyone has the right to remain home and the right to emigrate.” He emphasized that migration could be mutually beneficial for both migrants and the countries that receive them. Several southern European nations are grappling with declining birth rates, leading to aging populations and labor shortages. Pope Francis argued that a well-designed migration policy could help alleviate some of these challenges, revitalizing communities that have been left vacant due to emigration and low birth rates.

In addition to discussing migration, the Pope reflected on broader global issues, including the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. He expressed frustration at the international community’s failure to resolve these conflicts, stating that he could not understand why achieving peace seemed so difficult. His remarks suggested a sense of global hopelessness, as if there were an “international drive towards self-destruction.” Despite this, Francis continues to advocate for dialogue, negotiation, and non-violent solutions to conflicts.

Pope Francis, now 88 years old, has held the papacy since 2013, when he succeeded Pope Benedict XVI. Throughout his tenure, he has focused heavily on social justice issues, particularly the rights of marginalized groups such as migrants, refugees, and the poor. His teachings and actions have often clashed with more conservative political views, including Trump’s stance on immigration, but the Pope remains steadfast in his commitment to the dignity and humanity of all people.

While the Vatican’s influence on political decisions may be limited, Pope Francis has used his platform to challenge political leaders and global institutions to prioritize compassion and cooperation over division. His remarks about Trump’s immigration policies highlight the ongoing tension between humanitarian principles and national security concerns, an issue that remains at the forefront of global political discourse.

 

 

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