VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis has spoken out against President-elect Donald Trump’s reported plans to intensify immigration raids in the U.S., calling the proposal a “disgrace.”
In an interview with Italy’s “Che Tempo Che Fa” on Channel 9, the pontiff strongly criticized the plan, saying, “It would make the migrants, who have nothing, pay the unpaid bill. It doesn’t work. You don’t resolve problems this way.”
The pope, known for his advocacy for migrants and refugees, rarely makes direct comments on political matters. However, his remarks reflect a continuation of his long-standing opposition to policies he sees as hostile to immigrants.
The Trump administration is reportedly reconsidering planned immigration raids, including a large operation in Chicago, after public backlash. On Sunday, Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago echoed the pope’s sentiments, calling the raids “an affront to the dignity of all people and communities.”
Pope Francis has frequently addressed the need for compassion toward migrants during his nearly 12-year papacy. In 2016, he famously criticized Trump’s immigration rhetoric, saying, “A person who thinks only about building walls is not Christian.”
As the debate over immigration policies heats up, the Vatican leader’s words may inspire further dialogue on the treatment of vulnerable migrant communities.