“I think most people cannot understand why anyone would think that it’s a good idea for Iran to ever have a nuclear weapon,” said Marco Rubio. The U.S. Secretary of State will meet Pope Leo in a private audience on May 7, 2026. This meeting occurs against escalating tensions between the Trump administration and the Vatican over foreign policy issues.
Rubio downplayed the rift between Trump and Pope Leo regarding Iran. Trump publicly attacked Pope Leo, alleging he supports Iran having a nuclear weapon. In response, Pope Leo stated, “The church’s mission is to preach the Gospel and peace.” Rubio emphasized that the world should oppose Iran obtaining such weapons.
Rubio’s visit aims to advance bilateral relations with the Vatican and Italy. He is expected to discuss Middle East policy during his meeting. This includes ongoing concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The average fuel prices in the U.S. are now $4.48 per gallon, up from just under $3.17 a year ago. Rubio claimed that the U.S. is fortunate as a net exporter of oil. He noted that predictions about gas prices could have been much higher at this point, but they are not taking that for granted.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin acknowledged differences in views, stating, “We understand that not everyone is on the same page; but let’s say that this is the pope’s response.” This meeting marks Rubio as the first high-level official from the Trump administration to meet the pope since May 19, 2025.
