Pope Leo Signals Support for Journalists Targeted by Trump, tell me about this news in (https://www.nytimes.com/2026/09/25/world/europe/pope-leo-media-trump.html)
25-09-2026
Aboard the papal plane en route to France on September 25, 2026, Pope Leo XIV signaled clear support for a free press in response to moves by the Trump administration attempting to restrict media access.
The remarks came in the context of recent efforts by the Trump administration to bar several major U.S. news organizationsincluding CNN, MS NOW, and Politicofrom certain White House press briefings, which had prompted a legal battle and a recent judicial reprieve allowing reporters to resume coverage.
Addressing reporters gathered in the cabin of his aircraft, Pope Leo emphasized the essential role of journalism in holding public figures accountable and keeping societies informed. Contrasting the Vatican’s approach with the White House restrictions, he told the traveling press corps, “I am very happy that here, you are all welcome.”
During the exchange, the pope also took time to personally greet the traveling journalists and apologized for an earlier scheduling incident during his June return trip from Spain, when aircraft mechanical troubles had prevented the traditional airborne press conference. Overall, his comments served as a pointed reaffirmation of media access and the necessity of transparent press coverage for global leaders.