The Vatican has refuted claims of strained talks with the Pentagon in January, characterizing reports as “strongly exaggerated and distorted.”
Vatican Confirms Meeting, Disputes Characterization
Christophe Pierre, former Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, confirmed a meeting with Elbridge Andrew Colby within the scope of a routine papal representative mission, allowing for an exchange of views on matters of mutual interest, according to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.
The Vatican stated the recent reports regarding the meeting are “strongly exaggerated and distorted,” emphasizing the discussion with Pentagon representatives occurred in a respectful and reasonable atmosphere.
Pentagon Acknowledged “Respectful” Discussion
The U.S. Department of Defense previously confirmed a January meeting between a Deputy Secretary of Defense and the Apostolic Nuncio. The Pentagon described the meeting as “substantive, respectful, and professional,” covering topics including morality in foreign policy, U.S. National Security Strategy, and regional issues in Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
Pierre reportedly expressed appreciation for cooperation with the Pentagon and a desire for continued dialogue.
Meeting Prompted by Papal Criticism of International Order
The Vatican’s statement responds to reporting by Free Press regarding tensions between the Holy See and the Trump administration, stemming from Pope Leon XIV’s criticism of the White House’s immigration and foreign policies.
According to Free Press, the meeting was prompted by Pope Leon XIV’s January 9th address to the diplomatic corps, where he warned that the post-World War II principle against using force to alter borders had been “completely undermined” and replaced with “power-based diplomacy.”
Pentagon Officials Reportedly Objected to Papal Remarks
Free Press cited Vatican sources stating Pentagon officials were reportedly offended by the Pope’s comments on the “Monroe Doctrine,” a 19th-century strategy of U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere favored by Trump.
Colby allegedly stated that “America has the military power to do whatever it wants in the world” and advised the Church to “stand with” the U.S.
Historical Parallel Drawn by U.S. Official
Another U.S. official at the meeting reportedly referenced the Avignon Papacy, a 14th-century period when Popes were moved to Avignon under pressure from the French King and became dependent on the French crown.
