In brief
In a recent interview, Pope Francis has voiced strong opposition to former President Donald Trump's proposals for mass deportations of illegal migrants from the United States, deeming such actions a “disgrace” if implemented. The remarks were made during an Italian TV program, where the Pope emphasized that if Trump were to follow through on his plans, it would unjustly burden "poor wretches that don't have anything."
The Pope's comments come in the backdrop of Trump’s pledge to initiate what he claims will be the largest expulsion of undocumented immigrants in U.S. history shortly after his inauguration. On Monday, Pope Francis extended “cordial greetings” to Trump, urging him to foster a society devoid of hatred, discrimination, and exclusion while advocating for “peace and reconciliation among peoples.” The issue of migration holds a special significance for the pontiff. Last August, he referred to the systematic efforts to expel migrants as “a grave sin.” He has previously criticized Trump’s views, notably in 2016 when he remarked that anyone focused solely on constructing walls rather than building bridges “is not Christian.” This stance was in reference to Trump's campaign promise of a border wall with Mexico. Francis and Trump met in 2017 during Trump's visit to Rome, but the Pope has refrained from endorsing any specific candidates for the upcoming 2024 U.S. presidential election, instead suggesting voters discern “the lesser evil” based on their conscience.During the same interview, Pope Francis also discussed migration issues in Europe, highlighting the “cruelty” faced by migrants and advocating for their rights both to remain in their homeland and to seek opportunities abroad. He noted that some European nations suffering from low birth rates could benefit from structured migration policies. Furthermore, in a reflection on global conflicts, the Pope expressed his bewilderment at the difficulty of achieving peace amid ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, stating, “it is as if there was an international drive towards self-destruction.” As the Pope continues his tenure since 2013, he remains vocal about promoting compassion and understanding in the face of societal challenges.
