The Pentagon and the Vatican refuted claims of discord following Pope Leo's criticism of the Trump administration. Both institutions stated that their meeting in January was polite and emphasized their desire to maintain dialogue.

The Pentagon and the Vatican denied allegations of a rift following Pope Leo’s criticism of the Trump administration and a news report of a contentious meeting between a papal envoy and a top US defence official. In separate statements, the two sides both professed an eagerness to get along, saying the meeting that occurred in January was frank but polite. The Defence Department issued a statement that said “we have nothing but the highest regard and welcome continued dialogue with the Holy...