JD Vance Meets Pope Francis Amid Migration Debate on Easter Sunday

VATICAN CITY — U.S. Vice President JD Vance engaged in a brief meeting with Pope Francis on Sunday, coinciding with Easter celebrations in the Vatican. This encounter followed a notable exchange regarding the Trump administration’s plans for mass deportation of migrants, a contentious issue between the two.

Vance’s motorcade entered Vatican City through a side entrance, parking near Francis’ residence while Easter Mass was conducted in St. Peter’s Square. Due to health concerns stemming from a recent pneumonia hospitalization, Pope Francis delegated the Mass to another cardinal.

The Vatican confirmed their meeting lasted just a few minutes at the Domus Santa Marta, intended solely for Easter greetings. However, Vance’s office did not elaborate on the discussions, as his motorcade was in Vatican territory for a total of 17 minutes.

The relationship between Vance and Pope Francis has been characterized by sharp disagreements, particularly surrounding migration policies. Pope Francis has consistently emphasized compassion for migrants, making it a central aspect of his papacy.

In February, just days before his hospitalization, Francis criticized the Trump administration’s deportation initiatives, stating they undermine the dignity of migrants. He also addressed U.S. bishops in a letter, seemingly countering Vance’s claims that Catholic doctrine supports such policies.

While acknowledging the Pope’s criticisms, Vance has maintained his stance. During a National Catholic Prayer Breakfast on February 28, he identified as a “baby Catholic” and admitted gaps in his understanding of the faith, refraining from directly addressing the immigration issue.

Prior to his meeting with the Pope, Vance conferred with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, its foreign minister. They discussed their shared Catholic beliefs, issues faced by persecuted Christian communities worldwide, and President Trump’s aspirations for global peace.

The Vatican characterized their discussions as an exchange of views on migrants, refugees, and ongoing global conflicts. The Holy See continues to navigate its relationship with the Trump administration carefully, advocating for diplomacy while expressing concern over the treatment of migrants and reductions in international aid amidst pressing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.