Despite the differences in the political realm, the President of the United States decided to commemorate the late Supreme Pontiff with a great symbol of respect
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 PresidentDonald 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."
Vice President JD Vancewas the last international figure to see the Pope alive, during a visit that occurred on Easter Sunday, less than 24 hours before his passing.
The meeting, brief but significant, took place in the papal residence, Casa Santa Marta. Vance, a convert to Catholicism, expressed his admiration for the pontiff, despite their divergent views on immigration. The Pope gave him a tie, several rosaries, and Easter eggs for his children, a gesture that now holds greater symbolic value after his death.
Vance fue la última figura internacional en ver al Papa con vida
Other U.S. leaders also expressed their condolences. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, one of the most visible Catholic voices within the Republican Party and the government, wrote on social media.
"Jeanette and I are saddened by the news of Pope Francis's passing. We join in prayer with Catholics around the world for the repose of his soul and for this transition period for the Catholic Church. May he rest in peace."
Although Pope Francis received criticism during his pontificate from conservative sectors in the United States, his leadership left a profound mark.
His message in defense of migrants, the poor, and the environment, as well as his close pastoral style, earned him admiration even among those who did not fully share his vision. His death marks the end of an era in the Catholic Church and leaves a spiritual and moral void that will be felt worldwide.
El secretario de Estado Rubio también expresó su sentido pésame
