Secretary of State Marco Rubio Schedules Vatican Visit to Ease Tensions Between Trump and Pope Leo

U.S.-Italy Diplomatic Relations·May 3 – May 4, 2026

1 hour ago

Secretary of State Marco Rubio Schedules Vatican Visit to Ease Tensions Between Trump and Pope Leo

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Rome from May 6 to May 8 to meet with Italian and Vatican officials. This trip follows recent public criticism from President Trump directed at the Holy See. Rubio aims to stabilize diplomatic relations and address rising tensions between the administration and Pope Leo. During the visit, Rubio will discuss Middle East policy and security cooperation with local leaders. The trip comes as the State Department seeks to maintain ties with the Italian government and the Vatican despite recent diplomatic friction.

Marco Rubio to meet pope this week after Trump's broadside against LeoRubio plans to visit the Vatican this week as tensions between Trump and the pope riseRubio to travel to Italy May 6-8, State Dept says after tensions with pope

5 hours ago

Secretary of State Marco Rubio Schedules Italy and Vatican Visit to Stabilize Diplomatic Relations

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is traveling to Rome and the Vatican following a series of public clashes between President Trump and European leaders. Rubio plans to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to address diplomatic tensions that arose after recent criticisms from the White House. The visit aims to maintain stability as the administration considers reducing the number of U.S. troops stationed in the region. Rubio also scheduled a meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. This meeting follows public feuds between the President and the Pope. Officials say the trip is an effort to manage international relations after the President's recent comments caused friction with traditional allies.

Rubio to visit Italy, Vatican amid troop drawdown call, tension with Trump, Pope Leo: reportsRubio Plans Italy Visit After Trump's Clashes With Meloni, PopeRubio to Visit Rome, Officials Say, After Trump's Feud With Pope and Meloni