World leaders express “profound sadness” over pope’s death

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Pope Francis’ death at age 88 on Easter Monday has triggered mourning across the Catholic world, as tributes pour in from world leaders.

The big picture: The White House posted photos to X of President Trump and first lady Melania Trump’s 2017 meeting with the pontiff and of Vance shaking hands with him on Easter Sunday, with the comment: “Rest in Peace, Pope Francis.”

What they’re saying:

Vice President JD Vance said on X he was “happy to see” Francis during their brief meeting on Easter Sunday, “though he was obviously very ill.”

  • He added: “I’ll always remember him for the below homily he gave in the very early days of COVID. It was really quite beautiful.”

French President Emmanuel Macron said in posts to his social media accounts:”From Buenos Aires to Rome, Pope Francis wanted the Church to bring joy and hope to the poorest. For it to unite humans among themselves, and with nature. May this hope forever outlast him.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in social media posts “a great man has left us” as she noted she had “the privilege of enjoying his friendship, his counsel and his teachings, which never failed,” not even “in times of trial and suffering.”

Ireland’s Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Facebook spoke of his “profound sadness” at the pope’s death.

“Pope Francis’ long and distinguished papacy was marked by his unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, peace, and human dignity. He spoke out for the poor, the marginalised, and the oppressed. His solidarity with refugees, his calls for climate action, and his insistence on global peace and equality set him apart as a champion of justice in the modern world.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin

Israeli President Isaac Herzog on X paid tribute to the late pope’s compassion and said he “understood the importance of deepening relations with the Jewish world and sought to promote interfaith dialogue,” per an automatic translation.

  • He hoped that “his prayers for peace in the Middle East will be fulfilled” and all the hostages being held by Hamas will be returned soon, added Herzog in his tribute to Francis, who criticized Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on X noted Francis had “inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and love so pure for the less fortunate” and said she hoped people “find solace in the idea that Pope Francis’ legacy will continue to guide us all toward a more just, peaceful and compassionate world.”

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X “Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world” as he spoke fondly of his meetings with the late Pontiff and added his “affection for the people of India will always be cherished.”

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Editor’s note: This a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

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