U.S. Vice President JD Vance arrived in Rome on Friday to engage in significant diplomatic meetings with Italian officials and Vatican representatives. This visit follows closely on the heels of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s recent visit to the White House, where she met with President Donald Trump. During their discussions, Trump commended Meloni for her efforts to address migration issues.
Vance, who was present at the White House meetings, is scheduled to continue diplomatic engagements in Rome. He plans to meet with Prime Minister Meloni and attend Easter weekend events at the Vatican. Additionally, Vance is set to have discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, according to information released by the White House.
While no meeting with Pope Francis has been announced, the pontiff, aged 88, has significantly reduced his workload following a serious bout of double pneumonia. Pope Francis and Vice President Vance, who is a recent convert to Catholicism, have had disagreements regarding migration policies, particularly the Trump administration’s plans for mass deportations.
Prior to his hospitalization, Pope Francis criticized these deportation plans, stating they undermine the dignity of migrants. In correspondence with U.S. bishops, the pope indirectly addressed Vance’s assertions that Catholic doctrine supports such policies. Despite acknowledging the pope’s criticisms, Vance has maintained his stance on the issue.
This development underscores ongoing tensions and discussions between U.S. political leaders and the Vatican on matters of migration and human rights.
