President Donald Trump has escalated conflicts with multiple allies and religious leaders, publicly attacking Pope Leo XIV from Chicago who leads 1.4 billion Catholics for criticizing U.S. military operations in Venezuela and Iran, and accusing the Pope of being weak on crime. Trump criticized Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, a far-right ally, calling her unacceptable for not supporting the Iran war, while warning the UK their trade deal could be revised after Britain declined military participation. The U.S. has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports bringing Strait of Hormuz traffic to a virtual standstill, though cease-fire talks in Islamabad ended without agreement and a previously announced April 7 cease-fire appears unresolved. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth forced out Army Chief Gen. Randy George after 42 years of service, drawing bipartisan criticism, while Trump's endorsed ally Viktor Orban lost Hungary's election after 16 consecutive years in power.
Apr 11, 2026 · 3 sources
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