World leaders react to election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff

From Trump to Macron, Zelensky, Putin, and von der Leyen: global leaders welcome Robert Francis Prevost’s papacy with messages of hope, expectations, and diplomatic overtures

The election of Robert Francis Prevost as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church—taking the name Leo XIV—has drawn immediate reactions from global political figures. Born in Chicago and a longtime missionary in Peru, the 69-year-old cardinal becomes the first American Pope in history, a fact that has resonated strongly on the international stage.

Trump: “A great honor for America”

U.S. President Donald Trump celebrated the election on Truth Social, writing: “Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, just named Pope. It is a great honor to know he is the first American Pontiff.” He later reiterated: “It’s a great, great honor.”

Von der Leyen: “Wisdom and strength to guide the world”

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen extended her “sincere congratulations” on X, expressing hope that Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate “will be guided by wisdom and strength, as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue.”

Macron: “A historic moment for Catholics”

French President Emmanuel Macron called the election “a historic moment for the Catholic Church,” adding: “May this new pontificate bring peace and hope to all Catholics in France and around the world.”

Zelensky: “Ukraine appreciates the Vatican’s principled stance”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the Vatican’s consistent support for international law and condemnation of Russia’s aggression. He wrote on X: “In this decisive moment for our country, we trust in the continued moral and spiritual support of the Holy See.”

Putin: “Continue constructive dialogue”

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Pope Leo XIV, expressing hope that “the constructive dialogue and cooperation between Russia and the Vatican will continue, based on our shared Christian values.”

Israel and Latin America: hopes for peace and solidarity

Israeli President Isaac Herzog sent greetings “from the Holy City of Jerusalem,” voicing hope for stronger Vatican-Israel relations and deeper interfaith understanding. “May your ministry be one of bridge-building and peace.”

Colombian President Gustavo Petro emphasized the new Pope’s Latin American ties: “He is more than an American—his closest ancestors are Spanish and French, and he lived in our Latin America for forty years.” Petro called on Leo XIV to defend migrants, especially those “humiliated today in the United States,” and to help “build a global force for life and justice against climate-driven extinction.”

Poland and Hungary: tradition and spiritual renewal

Polish Prime Minister Andrzej Duda described the election as “deeply moving for the Catholic community and the entire world,” reaffirming Poland’s historical spiritual bond with the Vatican and expressing willingness to strengthen that relationship.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban offered a brief but resonant message on X: “Habemus Papam! A new hope. God bless Pope Leo XIV.”

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