Vatican Congratulates Trump, Expresses Doubts on Quick End to Global Conflicts

VATICAN CITY, Nov 7 (Reuters) – The Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, congratulated Donald Trump on his election victory Thursday but expressed doubt about his promise to end the war in Ukraine “within 24 hours.”

Parolin wished Trump “a lot of wisdom,” noting that wisdom is an important quality for leaders according to the Bible. However, when asked about Trump’s quick peace promise, Parolin said, “Let’s hope, let’s hope. I believe that not even he has a magic wand.” He added that resolving conflicts requires humility and a focus on the greater good of humanity.

Parolin also hoped that Trump would work to unify the United States, becoming a president for the whole country, and help reduce tensions in global conflicts.

These comments were the first official reaction from the Vatican following Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the U.S. election. Pope Francis has not yet commented on the result. In the past, the Pope had criticized both candidates, with concerns about Harris’ stance on abortion and Trump’s policies on migrants.

Trump had met with the Pope in May 2017 for a brief meeting at the Vatican during his first term.