Pope Leo XIV has called on U.S. bishops to candidly share their worries regarding the Trump administration’s immigration policies. This request came during a meeting with bishops and social workers from the U.S.-Mexico border at the Vatican, where the pope received letters from migrants voicing their concerns about the mass deportations being carried out under President Trump.
Since Trump resumed his presidency in January, federal immigration agents have been actively enforcing regulations across various communities. Recent reports from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) indicate that the agency has removed over 71,405 individuals this year alone.
This aggressive campaign has led to extensive protests and heightened anxiety within immigrant communities and their allies, with multiple legal challenges also emerging against the crackdown.
The Hill sought confirmation of the Pope’s remarks from the Vatican, while the White House directed inquiries to Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, who had previously pushed back against Leo’s statements.
Last month, Leo articulated that individuals who oppose abortion yet support the harsh treatment of immigrants are not genuinely “pro-life.” He pointed out the contradiction, emphasizing that someone who opposes abortion but is in favor of the death penalty can’t claim to be pro-life. Similarly, he questioned the pro-life credentials of those who simultaneously oppose abortion and support inhumane immigration policies in the U.S.
On Tuesday, the Vatican announced that the Pope is set to visit Türkiye and Lebanon from November 27 to December 2—marking his first overseas trip since becoming Pope.
