In a recent interview, Pope Francis expressed strong disapproval of Donald Trump's plans for mass deportations, calling such actions a disgrace, and highlighting the moral obligations toward migrants.
Trump's Deportation Plans Criticized by Pope Francis as a 'Disgrace'
Trump's Deportation Plans Criticized by Pope Francis as a 'Disgrace'
Pope Francis condemns Donald Trump's proposal for mass deportations, advocating for compassion towards migrants.
Pope Francis has labeled former President Donald Trump's proposed mass deportations of undocumented migrants in the United States as a "disgrace," emphasizing the inhumanity of such actions during a television interview from the Vatican. The pontiff expressed his concern that if these plans were enacted, they would unfairly burden the most vulnerable individuals.
Trump has made it clear that he intends to commence the largest expulsion of undocumented immigrants in U.S. history shortly after assuming office again. In his response, Pope Francis articulated the need for leadership that fosters inclusion and harmony, urging Trump to create a society devoid of hatred and discrimination. He stated that problems cannot be solved by further marginalizing already marginalized groups.
Pope Francis has a longstanding commitment to advocating for migrants, having previously described efforts aimed at systematically expelling them as sinful. He raised similar concerns in 2016 regarding Trump's intentions to construct a wall at the Mexican border—declaring that anyone solely focused on building barriers rather than bridges could not call themselves a Christian.
Earlier this month, the Pope sent a message of "cordial greetings" to Trump, urging him to guide society toward peace and reconciliation. As the 2024 U.S. presidential elections approach, the pontiff refrained from endorsing either Trump or his likely opponent, Kamala Harris, instead advising voters to consider their conscience when determining the "lesser evil."
In his remarks, Pope Francis also highlighted the broader migration crisis facing Europe, noting that many southern European nations, which receive a significant influx of migrants, face demographic challenges that necessitate a sustainable migrant policy.
Addressing global conflicts, the Pope lamented the difficulties in achieving peace in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East, questioning the persistent inclination towards self-destructive behaviors on an international scale. At 88 years old, Pope Francis continues to advocate for dignity and respect for migrants and remains a vocal critic of policies that disregard their humanity.
