Rubio to meet Pope Leo as Trump keeps up attacks on pontiff

At the Vatican on 7 May 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Pope Leo XIV after Trump's attacks on the pontiff and tensions over the Iran war. The Vatican said the two committed to stronger ties, and the US stressed a 'strong relationship' with the Vatican. Rubio said it was 'great' to meet, and the sides described the meeting as friendly and constructive. It reportedly lasted more than two hours.

Rubio also discussed humanitarian efforts and peace in the Middle East with Parolin. The pope gave Rubio a pen made of olive wood. One report says the visit included disagreements over Cuba and Iran. Separately, Meloni moved to ease tensions with Rubio amid a possible US troop pullout.