Algeria Pope Africa

Pope Leo XIV speaks to journalists aboard his flight bound for Algiers’ Houari Boumédiène International Airport on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the start of an 11-day apostolic journey to Africa.

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A dispatch from inside the Vatican bubble during a remarkable exchange between pope and president

A dispatch from inside the Vatican bubble during a remarkable exchange between pope and president

Pope Leo XIV's trip to Africa has been marked by an unusual dynamic with U.S. President Donald Trump. The first American pontiff has faced criticism from Trump. The U.S. leader has accused him of being soft on crime and cozy with the left. Leo responded by emphasizing his calls for peace especially regarding the Iran war. Leo on Wednesday focused on his visit to Algeria and highlighted themes of unity and peace. Traveling with the Vatican press pool offers unique access but also limits local reporting. The trip is Leo's first to Africa. It underscored the challenges and privileges of covering the papal journey.