Pope Leo XIV used his second day in Algeria on Tuesday to condemn violence and pride, directly responding to recent criticisms from U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking in Annaba, the Pope stated that God "does not stand with the wicked, with the arrogant, or the proud."
The pontiff's remarks follow a sharp attack from Trump, who called the Pope "weak" and "terrible in foreign policy" regarding the Vatican's stance on international conflicts. In a rebuttal delivered aboard his flight to Algeria, the Pope stated he does not fear the Trump administration and intends to continue speaking out against war.
During his stop at a center for the elderly managed by the Little Sisters of the Poor, the Pope highlighted the spiritual importance of the region. He noted that the site is linked to Saint Augustine of Hippo, the figure who inspired the Pope's own religious order.
"I am happy because God dwells here, because where there is love and service, there is God," the Pope said in English to a group of nuns and elderly residents. He added that seeing such fraternity provides hope, even as "the heart of God is torn by wars, violence, injustices, and lies."
Legacy of Saint Augustine
The visit to the archaeological ruins of Hippo and the center in Annaba allowed the Pope to honor his spiritual roots. Saint Augustine, who died in 430, established the foundational criteria for "just war," arguing that military action should only occur to defend against aggression or protect the innocent.
These principles are currently being invoked by critics of the recent conflict involving Iran. According to Reuters, the war began following surprise U.S. and Israeli airstrikes against Iran on February 28.
Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington has joined these critics, labeling the war "morally illegitimate" based on Augustinian principles. The Pope's 10-day tour of Africa includes four countries and aims to address these global tensions.
While visiting the ruins, the Pope placed a wreath of white and yellow roses and assisted Algerian Muslim scouts in planting a sapling. He concluded his visit to the city with a Mass at the Basilica of Saint Augustine.
