Issued on: 18/04/2026 - 14:36Modified: 18/04/2026 - 14:46

A week of escalating tensions has unfolded between Donald Trump and the Vatican, after Trump insulted the Pope on social media following remarks on peace in the Middle East. His behaviour shocked audiences worldwide and reignited debate over his mental health. The feud has further exposed divisions within the American right in a country where religion plays a central political role. FRANCE 24’s guest Scott Lucas, Professor of US and international politics at the University College of Dublin, examined whether this week of tensions has ultimately weakened the US president.

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