Pope Leo XIV begins African tour amid criticism from US President Trump
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Pope Leo XIV embarked on an 11-day tour of Africa, starting in Algeria, a trip that coincides with public criticism from US President Donald Trump. Leo is the first leader of the world’s Catholics to visit Algeria, aiming to foster understanding between Christian and Muslim communities. Hours before his departure, Trump criticized the Pope for his calls to end violence in the Iran war, accusing him of “toying with a country that wants a nuclear weapon.” Trump also suggested Leo’s election was influenced by his American nationality. Pope Leo had previously described Trump’s threats against Iranian civilians as “unacceptable” and his administration’s treatment of migrants as “inhuman.” Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, a close ally of Trump, issued a statement wishing the Pope a successful journey to the four African nations. The Pope’s itinerary includes Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea. In Algeria, he will meet President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, address diplomats, and honor victims of the 1954-1962 war of independence. The visit holds personal significance for Leo, as Algeria was home to Saint Augustine, whose spiritual legacy influenced the Pope. He will visit Annaba, Saint Augustine’s former home, and celebrate mass. The Pope’s schedule also includes visits to the Great Mosque of Algiers and the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, and he plans to pray privately for victims of Algeria’s 1992-2002 civil war. While the Pope will not visit the Tibhirine monastery,
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