Pope Leo XIV was recently spotted engaging in hands-on activities, just days after a heated exchange with Donald Trump regarding the Iran conflict. The pontiff kicked off a significant tour in Africa, starting in Algeria, where he emphasized the importance of peace and criticized “neocolonial tendencies.” His journey spans 11 days and includes visits to three more countries – Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea – within the Catholic Church’s sphere.
During his stop in Hippo, a city in Algeria, Pope Leo was photographed interacting with boy scouts who were planting olive trees. Candid images captured the pontiff looking surprised as he got his hands dirty in the process, causing some chuckles among his companions. Additionally, pictures from the visit showed him reaching out to an aide with mud-covered hands while a senior clergyman looked on with a smile.
Leo’s visit to Algeria aims to promote harmony between Christians and Muslims in the predominantly Muslim nation amidst global tensions. He also seeks to honor the spiritual influence of St Augustine, a native of the region. However, his trip began amid escalating tensions with President Trump over the Iran conflict. Trump criticized Leo, accusing him of being weak on crime and foreign policy, suggesting that Leo owes his position to American influence.
In response, Pope Leo defended his stance on peace and reconciliation, emphasizing that his actions are guided by the Gospel and dismissing any fear of the Trump administration. He took a subtle jab at the president’s social media platform, highlighting the irony in its name. During a speech in Algiers, he reiterated his anti-war sentiments, advocating for a peace that embodies justice and dignity for all nations.
