Global Reaction to the Passing of Pope Francis
World leaders paid unanimous tribute to the late Pope Francis following the Vatican’s announcement of his death at 88 years old. Here’s how different nations responded:
United States
The U.S. Presidency tweeted, “Rest in peace, Pope Francis.” Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic who met with the pontiff earlier that same day, stated his heart was with “millions of Christians” around the world.
Argentina
Argentine President Javier Milei expressed his honor at having known “in his kindness and wisdom” Pope Francis, despite differences that now seem minor.
Cuba
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel lamented the pope’s death and highlighted his closeness with Cuba.
European Union
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Pope Francis for inspiring millions beyond the Catholic Church through his humility and pure love for the most disadvantaged.
Russia
President Vladimir Putin described Pope Francis as a “wise leader” and a constant defender of the highest humanist and justice values. He also noted Francis’ active contribution to dialogue between Russian Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches, as well as constructive interaction between Russia and the Holy See.
Ukraine
President Volodymyr Zelensky honored a pope who prayed for peace in Ukraine.
Italy
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed deep sorrow over the loss of “a great man,” referring to Pope Francis.
France
President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to someone always standing with the most vulnerable and expressed his “sincerest condolences to Catholics worldwide.”
Poland
Prime Minister Donald Tusk praised “a good, warm, and sensitive man.”
United Kingdom
King Charles III of England stated he was “deeply saddened” by Pope Francis’ death, who served the world with devotion throughout his life. Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlighted Francis’ relentless efforts for a more just world.
Ireland
Prime Minister Micheal Martin referred to Francis as a “champion of justice in modern times” and a defender of the “poor” and “oppressed.”
Spain
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized Francis’ commitment to peace, social justice, and the most vulnerable.
Germany
Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz described Francis as a “defender of the weak” and a “man of reconciliation.” His elected successor, Friedrich Merz, praised Francis’ unwavering commitment to the most vulnerable and justice.
Hungary
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán thanked Pope Francis, saying, “Thank you for everything.”
Portugal
Prime Minister Luis Montenegro praised Francis’ unique legacy of humanism, empathy, compassion, and closeness to people.
Israel
President Isaac Herzog honored “a man of deep faith and boundless compassion.”
Palestinian Authority
President Mahmoud Abbas paid tribute to “a loyal friend of the Palestinian people,” who recognized Palestine as a state.
Lebanon
President Joseph Aoun mourned the loss of a “dear friend” and fervent supporter, stating that Francis’ death is a loss for all humanity.
Iran
Spokesperson for Iranian diplomacy, Esmail Baghai, extended condolences to all Christians worldwide and prayed for peace for Pope Francis.
Egypt
President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi lamented “a deep loss for the entire world” and acknowledged Francis as a voice of peace, love, and compassion.
African Union
The African Union honored Francis as an “unwavering advocate for peace.”
Kenya
President William Ruto applauded Francis’ unwavering commitment to inclusion and justice.
Ethiopia
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praised Francis’ legacy of compassion and humility.
India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Francis as a model of compassion, humility, and spiritual valor.
Sri Lanka
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake honored Francis’ unwavering commitment to peace, leaving an “indelible mark.”
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the world leaders paying tribute to Pope Francis? Leaders from various countries, including the United States, Argentina, Cuba, European Union nations, Russia, Ukraine, Italy, France, Poland, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Spain, Germany, Hungary, Portugal, Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Lebanon, Iran, Egypt, the African Union, Kenya, Ethiopia, India, and Sri Lanka.
- What is the significance of Pope Francis? Pope Francis, whose full name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as the head of the Roman Catholic Church from 2013 until his death in 2023. He was known for his progressive views, emphasis on social justice, and humility.
- How did Pope Francis impact global relations? Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis fostered dialogue between different religions and nations. His efforts contributed to improved relations, particularly in areas of conflict like Russia-Ukraine and advocating for peace in regions such as the Middle East.
