In a move that stunned followers and critics alike, former U.S. President Donald Trump shared an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope — only days after the Catholic world laid Pope Francis to rest in a solemn ceremony at the Vatican.
The post, made on Trump’s social media platform Truth Social, depicted him wearing a white mitre and a large crucifix, dressed in full papal attire. While Trump, a non-Catholic, is known for dramatic and often controversial online content, this image struck a particularly sensitive nerve.
Critics say it didn’t just push boundaries — it crossed them entirely.
A Joke or a Jab? The Image That Sparked Backlash
In the post’s caption, Trump reportedly joked about “not being opposed” to succeeding the late pope. Though intended as humor, the timing and tone of the message were widely condemned as deeply disrespectful to grieving Catholics worldwide.
“It was tone-deaf,” one user commented. “Not even a week has passed since the funeral.”
The image circulated rapidly across platforms, triggering global backlash:
- “Mocking an entire religion during a period of mourning,” one user said.
- “Utterly sacrilegious,” another wrote.
- “This isn’t leadership — it’s self-parody.”
Many pointed to the contrast between the solemnity of Pope Francis’s legacy and Trump’s attempt at satire, calling it an unwelcome intrusion into sacred territory.
Compounding the Controversy: Dress Code Violation at the Funeral
This wasn’t the only moment Trump made headlines during the mourning period. Attending Pope Francis’s funeral in Vatican City, the former president appeared in a mid-blue suit and bright tie, breaking the strict Vatican funeral dress code, which calls for dark, somber attire.
World leaders including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron adhered to tradition. Melania Trump, in contrast, wore a black coat, gloves, and veil — complying fully with protocol.
The dress misstep was interpreted by some as further evidence of indifference or disconnect.
A Sudden Diplomatic Shift at the Vatican
Despite the controversy, something unexpected happened during the funeral proceedings — a brief but telling exchange between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The two, whose last encounter had strained U.S.-Ukrainian relations, were seen shaking hands and even sharing a brief embrace. The moment, captured on camera, was described by some commentators as “Pope Francis’s last miracle.”
In the days following their meeting, Trump took a notably stronger stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin, condemning recent missile strikes on Kyiv and hinting at harsher secondary sanctions to come.
From Controversy to Conclave: The Catholic Church Looks Forward
As social media erupted over Trump’s post, the Catholic Church turned its focus to the future. Inside the Vatican, 133 cardinals gathered for one of the Church’s most sacred traditions — the conclave to select the next pope.
The process, conducted in secrecy inside the Sistine Chapel, began shortly after Pope Francis’s funeral. Known for his progressive reforms and global outreach, Francis served as head of the Church for 12 years before passing away at 88.
Cardinals expressed a unified hope for a leader who would continue Francis’s legacy — but also acknowledged the weight of tradition and spiritual discernment.
“We will find the best person to succeed St. Peter,” said Archbishop William Goh of Singapore.
A Moment of Reflection
While the world awaits the election of a new pope, Trump’s post continues to spark debate: Was it satire, or sacrilege? A meme, or a mockery?
In a time of mourning for millions of Catholics, the gesture hit different — a reminder of how easily technology can blur the lines between humor, symbolism, and reverence.
As the conclave begins and world leaders return to their respective capitals, one thing is certain: even in silence, the Vatican remains a place of powerful moments — and unforgettable messages.
