The world received with sorrow the news of the passing of Pope Francis, which occurred this Monday at 7:35 (local time) in his Vatican residence, at the age of 88. The news was officially announced by the camerlengo cardinal Kevin Farrell, which sparked a wave of reactions from political, religious, and social leaders around the world.
From Latin America to Europe and Asia, the Argentine pontiff's figure was highlighted as a symbol of openness, humility, and commitment to social causes.
In the United States, one of the first to react was President Donald Trump, who ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on all public buildings, military bases, embassies, and warships, as a sign of respect for the pontiff's memory.
"He was a good man," Trump expressed during the traditional Easter egg hunt at the White House. Additionally, on his Truth Social network, he posted a brief message: "Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!", as a sign of mourning and respect, despite the differences they both had in the past.
The relationship between Pope Francis and Trump was not without tensions. The pontiff had been critical of certain immigration policies and the U.S. president's approach to climate change and social justice.
However, they both met in May 2017 during a private audience at the Vatican, a meeting that, according to Trump, "he will never forget."
