02/22/2026
Pope Leo XIV has REJECTED Donald Trump’s invitation to take part in the United States's 250th anniversary celebrations this July 4. And his alternative plans send a clear message.
The Vatican confirmed Leo will not attend any U.S. anniversary events, just days after also rejecting Trump’s invitation to participate in his so-called “Board of Peace” event.
Instead of joining Trump’s “Freedom 250” festivities in Washington, the American-born pope will spend Independence Day on the tiny Italian island of Lampedusa, one of the world’s most symbolic migrant gateways. Leo has chosen to mark the day in solidarity with migrants risking their lives in search of freedom.
via Letters from Leo