U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Senate Majority Leader Marco Rubio met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican for a private audience, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the United States and the Holy See. The meeting followed the Pope’s inaugural mass, where he emphasized the importance of family unions between a man and a woman and the dignity of the unborn. This private audience highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between the U.S. government and the Vatican, addressing key topics such as religious freedom and international cooperation. The discussions also included the collaboration between the Church and the U.S. government, as well as the importance of upholding humanitarian and international laws in conflict zones.
The Pope’s address during the inaugural mass underscored his commitment to fostering unity, peace, and the protection of human dignity. The U.S. leaders and their spouses participated in the Pope’s mass, demonstrating the deepening relationship between the American administration and the Catholic Church. During their private meeting, both Vance and Rubio engaged in cordial talks with key Vatican officials, including Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, who serves as the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations. The discussions reflected the mutual interest in maintaining a positive relationship between the U.S. and the Vatican, while addressing pressing global issues through diplomatic channels. This engagement highlights the role of religious institutions in shaping foreign policy and international cooperation.