Pope Leo praises Spain’s commitment to peace and respect for law after Trump rift

MADRID — Pope Leo may not find it hard to connect with his hosts as he kicks off a weeklong visit to Spain this weekend

MADRID — Pope Leo may not find it hard to connect with his hosts as he kicks off a weeklong visit to Spain this weekend.

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Like Leo, Spain’s socialist government has been vocally critical of the Iran war, risking the ire of the Trump administration by refusing to provide military support. And also like the Chicago-born pontiff, Spain has been outspoken in opposing Israel’s war in Gaza.

That may have been on Leo’s mind Saturday during his address at Madrid’s Royal Palace, where, after being greeted by King Felipe VI, he expressed his gratitude for Spain’s faithful adherence to international law and active commitment to peace and solidarity among peoples. Advocating for peace is important “in an age seemingly shaken by terrible imbalances and conflicts,” he said.