Trump congratulates newly elected Pope Leo XIV, says appointment is a ‘great honour for America
U.S. President Donald Trump has extended congratulations to Cardinal Robert Prevost following his election as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Now known as Pope Leo XIV, Prevost made history as the first American ever to be elected to the papacy.
The announcement came Thursday evening after white smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, signalling that a decision had been reached by the College of Cardinals.
The papal conclave, which began on Wednesday, concluded with Prevost securing the required majority vote to become the 267th successor to Pope Francis who died on Easter Monday.
Reacting to the latest development, Trump congratulated the new pope, describing his appointment as an honour to America.
In a terse statement on the X handle of the White House, shortly after the Vatican’s announcement, Trump said: “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!”
Source: X | WhiteHouse
