Pope Francis critiques Trump's immigration plans, urges peace
Pope Francis criticized Donald Trump's plans for the deportation of immigrants from the United States, calling them a "disgrace." He also emphasized that the solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict lies in a two-state formula. Additionally, he announced the appointment of a woman to the position of Governor of Vatican City State.
Donald Trump will assume the office of President of the United States on Monday. For many months, even just before the inauguration, he reiterated that "he will launch the largest immigrant deportation operation in the country's history." His aim is to close the southern border with Mexico and remove immigrants and criminals, including members of cartels and street gangs.
During an interview on Nove television, Pope Francis expressed his concern over President-elect Donald Trump's plans to deport illegal immigrants from the United States.
If it is true, it will be a disgrace, because it makes the poor wretches who have nothing to pay the unpaid bill. It won’t do, said Pope Francis - This is not the way to solve things - he added.
During the discussion, the Pope highlighted the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, underscoring that the two-state solution is the only viable path forward. He noted that while some parties express willingness, others remain resistant, emphasizing the need for persuasive and measured dialogue. The Pope also stressed that achieving peace demands courage and may require sacrifices, but the long-term benefits outweigh the challenges.
Pope Francis also addressed the topic of the Holocaust, expressing "pity and shame" for what happened. It was a human disgrace and human pain," he said. In the context of contemporary challenges, the Pope announced the appointment of Sister Raffaella Petrini to the position of Governor of Vatican City State, which will be a historic event. The governorship is the most important office in the Vatican, and the Pope manages the country on behalf of the Pope.
During the interview, the Pope also emphasized the importance of closeness and respect for all people, including transgender individuals. - The word is closeness, closeness with everyone - he stressed.
At the end of the conversation, Pope Francis shared an anecdote from the moment the cardinals chose him as Pope. - They [the Cardinals] are crazy, but let God do what he wants! - he recalled his first thought after the election. He also spoke about his first stumble right after the conclave. - It was the first stumble of the Pope - as he stated.
