Marco Rubio Heads to Rome and Vatican Amid Trump Clashes with Pope Leo, Italy Over NATO and Iran

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is preparing for a high-stakes visit to Italy and the Vatican this week, in a diplomatic effort to steady relations strained by a series of public confrontations involving President Donald Trump, Pope Leo and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, according to a report by Fox News.

Rubio is expected to meet Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s top diplomat, and hold talks with Italy’s foreign and defence ministers, as Washington seeks to contain tensions that have escalated in recent weeks across political, military and ideological fronts.

The trip comes at a sensitive moment for U.S.-Europe relations. The Pentagon last week announced plans to withdraw around 5,000 troops from Germany, raising concerns among European allies about Washington’s long-term commitment to NATO. Trump has also suggested he could scale back U.S. troop presence in Italy, a key strategic hub for American forces in Europe.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump questioned Rome’s support for U.S. initiatives, saying, “Why shouldn’t I? Italy has not been of any help to us, and Spain has been horrible.” He also criticised European reluctance to participate in maritime security efforts, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route.

Despite the criticism, Trump has repeatedly praised Rubio’s diplomatic abilities, describing him earlier this year as a highly effective secretary of state.

Italy remains central to U.S. military operations, hosting nearly 13,000 American troops across multiple bases as of late 2025. However, the broader relationship has been complicated by disagreements over tariffs, NATO commitments and policy toward Iran.

Rubio’s visit is also seen as an attempt to ease tensions with the Vatican. Trump has openly criticised Pope Leo over his opposition to the administration’s stance on Iran and immigration, at one point calling him “terrible” on social media. In a recent post, Trump accused the pontiff of being “weak on crime” and criticised his approach to foreign policy.

Pope Leo has pushed back against the administration’s positions, stating he has “no fear” of U.S. pressure, while avoiding prolonged public exchanges.

The visit could also help repair strains with Meloni, a key U.S. ally who has faced criticism from Trump over her defence of the Pope and her position on Middle East policy.

Whether Rubio secures a direct meeting with the pontiff remains unclear, but the trip underscores Washington’s effort to recalibrate ties at a moment of growing friction with key European partners.

(With inputs from ANI)