On April 20, 2025, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance met with Pope Francis at Casa Santa Marta in Vatican City. This brief encounter, which lasted only a few minutes, allowed the two leaders to exchange Easter greetings. The meeting is seen as a significant moment of rapprochement between the Holy See and Washington, especially given Pope Francis's previous criticisms of the strict immigration measures in the United States.
Vance, who was visiting Rome with his family for Easter, had earlier met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on April 18, 2025, to discuss the strong ties between Italy and the United States, as well as ongoing trade negotiations with the European Union. "It was fantastic to meet Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome. Italy is a wonderful country and a great ally of the United States," Vance later posted on Instagram.
During his visit to the Vatican, Vance met with high-ranking Vatican officials, including Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher. Discussions focused on the good bilateral relations between the Vatican and the United States, as well as a mutual commitment to protect the right to freedom of religion and conscience. The talks also included an exchange of views on the international situation, particularly in regions affected by conflict, political tensions, and humanitarian crises, with a specific emphasis on the plight of migrants and refugees.
On the same day as his meeting with Pope Francis, Vance attended Easter Mass at the Basilica of San Paolo fuori le Mura. This event marked the last day of his Italian visit, which began with a private Eucharistic ceremony at St. Peter's Basilica early in the morning.
Pope Francis, who had recently been hospitalized for 38 days due to bilateral pneumonia, made a notable appearance for the Easter celebrations. After delivering the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing from the Loggia of Blessings, he took a moment to engage with the crowd, riding in the popemobile to greet the approximately 35,000 faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square.
In his Easter message, the Pope called for peace, highlighting the "ignoble situation" in Gaza and urging for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. He also expressed concern over the rising tide of antisemitism globally and emphasized that "no peace is possible without true disarmament." His message resonated with the themes of hope and responsibility, urging people to care for one another and to strive for a more peaceful world.
During the Urbi et Orbi blessing, the Pope lamented the violence affecting women and children and the disrespect shown towards migrants. He encouraged everyone to return to hope, stating, "I would like us to return to hope that peace is possible!" He also prayed for the people of Ukraine and Yemen, calling for an end to the suffering caused by war and conflict.
As Vance concluded his visit to Italy, he reflected on the importance of the relationships built during his trip. His meetings with Meloni and Pope Francis were seen as pivotal moments that could foster greater collaboration between the U.S. and Italy, as well as between the U.S. and the Vatican.
Despite the ceremonial nature of his visit, Vance's trip was not without controversy. The Colosseum was closed early on April 19, 2025, to accommodate Vance's wife for a private visit, which drew criticism from tourists who were left outside. This incident highlighted the challenges and disruptions often associated with high-profile visits from political figures.
In summary, Vice President J.D. Vance's visit to Italy was marked by significant diplomatic engagements, including his meeting with Pope Francis, which underscored the ongoing dialogue between the U.S. and the Vatican on critical global issues. The Easter celebrations, attended by thousands, served as a backdrop for discussions on peace, humanitarian efforts, and the importance of international cooperation.
