Pope Leo XIV held a private meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on May 19, 2025, in the papal library. The 45-minute audience, which began with a one-on-one between Vance and the pope, included discussions on pressing international issues and the relationship between Church and state. Rubio joined the meeting after the initial private conversation, followed by the participation of Second Lady Usha Vance and Jeanette Dousdebes Rubio.
According to a Vatican statement, there was an ‘exchange of views’ between the Vatican and the U.S. administration regarding ‘some current international issues,’ which likely referenced ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises. The statement further emphasized the need for ‘respect for humanitarian law and international law in areas of conflict and for a negotiated solution between the parties involved.’
A photograph released by Vatican Media shows Vice President Vance presenting a Chicago Bears jersey with ‘Pope Leo XIV’ printed on the back to the Holy Father, a gesture that captured the meeting’s lighter moments. Rubio and Vance were also seated in places of honor across the papal desk from the pope, a position typically reserved for heads of state.
Following the papal audience, Vance and Rubio met with Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, to discuss ‘collaboration between Church and state and issues relevant to ecclesial life and religious freedom,’ according to the Vatican. This meeting reflects Pope Leo’s continued diplomatic efforts, particularly in light of ongoing global conflicts.
Pope Leo XIV has demonstrated a more assertive stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict than his predecessor. Within days of his election, he spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and later met with him in a private audience on the day of his inaugural Mass. During his first two Regina Caeli addresses on May 11 and 18, the pope called for ‘a just and lasting peace’ in Ukraine and reiterated his appeal for negotiations to end the conflict.
In 2022, as Bishop of Peru, then-Bishop Prevost referred to the Russian invasion of Ukraine as ‘imperialist in nature,’ language that was notably more direct than the appeals of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The Vatican’s recent statement underscored a similar position, calling for ‘respect for humanitarian law’ in conflict zones.
Meanwhile, on the conflict in Gaza, Pope Leo has echoed his predecessor’s call for a ceasefire and the safe return of Israeli hostages. The focus on humanitarian principles remains a key element of the Vatican’s diplomatic messaging under Leo XIV, as demonstrated in these recent meetings.
Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio also met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Rome following the papal meeting. According to Vance’s office, the leaders discussed ‘ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and lasting peace.’ Zelenskyy characterized the encounter as a ‘good meeting’ and affirmed that ‘Ukraine is ready to be engaged in real diplomacy,’ while also emphasizing the need for continued pressure and sanctions against Russia.
