In his first major interview since taking office, Pope Leo has voiced significant concerns regarding “some things” occurring in the United States. The range of issues the pontiff addressed was notable in the interview. He spoke with the same passion and urgency about immigration, artificial intelligence, and the developing crisis in Gaza. He further stressed his two priorities of continuing to build diplomatic ties with Beijing and advancing women into key leadership positions in the Church.
Pope Leo dropped this bombshell by rejecting the proposal to create an AI replica of himself. This move would have allowed people across the world to have virtual audiences with him. Yet for someone so plugged in, he is an ardent advocate of the power of human interaction. He shows how deeply personal relationships matter, especially when dealing with spiritual things.
The pope noted his ongoing dialogue with U.S. officials, including Vice President JD Vance, where immigration emerged as a critical issue. Unfortunately, Pope Leo hasn’t had any direct communication yet with President Donald Trump. His big brother, Louis Prevost, did sit down with Trump in the White House.
Concerns About U.S. Policies
During the course of interview, Pope Leo shared his concerns about just such a counter-revolutionary tide taking hold in the United States. He pointed to the toxic environment surrounding immigration, a needed and still urgent, important issue that requires an environment of healing, protecting, and caring.
“I was very happy to see how the American bishops picked that up, and some of them were courageous enough to go with that.” – Pope Leo XIV
Moreover, the pontiff’s previous social media presence suggested that he would take a positive view towards Trump and Vance prior to their election. Pope Leo’s patronage Pope Leo’s titanic, lifelong advocacy for poor and marginalized communities indicates that he means to take these concerns seriously and outright during his papacy.
The pontiff’s statements highlight the depth of his commitment to addressing these urgent issues directly to the U.S. leadership. He even provocatively proclaimed that he has no fear about bringing difficult issues to the table. Given half a chance, he would jump at the opportunity to spar with Trump one-on-one.
Position on Artificial Intelligence
Pope Leo turns down an AI version of himself. This decision is a great illustration of his perspective on technology and its impact on a more humane world. He described the effort to produce an “artificial me” as dangerous. This, he stressed, had the effect of erasing the inherent worth of a human being.
“If there’s anybody who should not be represented by an avatar, I would say the pope is high on the list.” – Pope Leo XIV
He condemned the wider tendency to use AI as a substitute for real human connection. He cautioned that this path might lead to science becoming “an empty, cold shell.” The pope’s remarks reflect a broader concern about the role of technology in society and its potential to dehumanize interpersonal connections.
Pope Leo’s viewpoint is accentuated by his desire to keep a personal touch to those who come to him in search of spiritual guidance. He feels that all people should have an opportunity to be a part of discussions. Such inclusion flows from their inherent worth as divine image bearers.
Ongoing Commitment to Women’s Roles and LGBTQ Inclusion
Pope Leo leads the Church to intentionally elevate women. He is focused on making sure their perspectives are brought into the upper echelons of decision-making. He even said “our conception of women’s roles, of the complementarity must continue to develop,” showing a desire to move on this issue beyond tokenization toward inclusivity.
He underscored Pope Francis’ welcoming disposition to the LGBTQ Catholics, signaling that this policy is here to stay under his jurisdiction. He ruled out church reform on church teaching about sexuality as “highly unlikely.”
The pope’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment within the Church aligns with his broader mission of compassion and understanding. He urged “the deepest sensitivity and compassion” be shown to people harmed by church ministers. He doubled down on prioritizing assistance for the most marginalized communities first.
Addressing Global Issues
In terms of international issues, Pope Leo focused on the plight of Christians in Gaza and the rise of Muslim power. He characterized the situation on the ground as “very, very grave” and warned that genocide may be on the verge of happening.
His comments reflect a deep awareness of global humanitarian issues and the Church’s responsibility to advocate for peace and justice. As this short series on the pope’s approach shows, it speaks to a deep commitment playing to local concerns while raising awareness of bigger global dramas.
Pope Leo’s statements illustrate his holistic vision for the papacy, one that encompasses both spiritual guidance and active engagement with pressing social issues. His is a new beginning, too. Most importantly, it’s apparent that he intends to really lead with empathy and to the tough conversations head on.
