Canadian cardinal and Vatican official
Pope Leo XIV has completed an 11-day African tour focusing on peace and justice, but his trip has been overshadowed by a public feud with US President Donald Trump. The pope has repeatedly condemned war and tyranny, including criticism of the US-Israeli war on Iran, prompting Trump to attack him on social media. Leo insists his messages target global issues, not Trump personally, and vows to continue advocating for peace.
The Vatican has appointed Italian economist Alessandra Smerilli as head of the office for migrants, environment and development, succeeding Cardinal Michael Czerny. Cardinal Fabio Baggio is named pro-prefect alongside her. The move follows Pope Francis’ push to elevate women in the Holy See’s leadership, while traditionalists push back on further reforms.