United States President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism after posting an artificial intelligence-generated image portraying himself in a Christ-like form, sparking outrage across religious and political circles.
The controversial image, shared on his Truth platform on Sunday, shows Trump dressed in flowing robes and surrounded by bright light, with his arms extended in a pose associated with healing.
The background features symbolic elements, including figures resembling angels or armed guards, fighter jets, fireworks, and the Statue of Liberty.
The post has further strained Trump’s already tense relationship with Pope Leo XIV, following recent public disagreements between the two figures on global issues.
Reacting to the pope’s stance on international conflicts and nuclear policy, Trump criticised his leadership, saying, “I don’t want a Pope who thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.” He also described the pontiff as “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.”
Trump went further to question the circumstances surrounding the pope’s emergence in 2025, claiming political motives influenced his selection.
“If I wasn’t in the White House, Leo wouldn’t be in the Vatican,” he said.
Speaking to journalists later, the US president added, “I’m not a fan of the pope. He’s very liberal, and I don’t agree with the way he approaches leadership.”
In contrast, Pope Leo had earlier called for restraint and peace during remarks at St Peter’s Basilica. He warned global leaders against what he described as excessive displays of power and self-importance.
“Enough of the idolatry of self and money… Enough of war,” the pope said, urging world leaders to prioritise dialogue over conflict.
He also criticised attempts to use religion to justify violence, stating that “God does not bless any conflict.”
