Trump Celebrates First American Pontiff, Hints at Historic Vatican Meeting

By Achimi Muktar

In a historic twist that has electrified both political and religious circles, American President Donald Trump has congratulated Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—on becoming the first American to lead the Roman Catholic Church.

Trump, never one to miss a moment of national pride, took to social media on Thursday to share his excitement:
“Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honour to realise that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”

Pope Leo XIV, the 267th pontiff in Catholic history, succeeds the late Pope Francis and brings a fresh chapter to the Vatican as the first American-born leader of the global Church.

Born in Chicago on September 14, 1955, Leo XIV was appointed cardinal by Pope Francis in September 2023, just two years before assuming the papacy. His rise marks a significant moment for both the United States and the global Catholic community, especially as the Church navigates complex global challenges.

President Trump’s congratulatory message signals the likely deepening of diplomatic and spiritual ties between Washington and the Vatican in this unprecedented chapter.

While no official date has been set, the American leader hinted at a forthcoming meeting with the newly elected Pope—one that promises to be more than just a handshake and photo-op.

In a moment brimming with symbolism and anticipation, the world now watches as America meets the Vatican—not in ideology, but in leadership.