Overview
- U.S. defense officials, the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See, and Vatican spokespeople said Thursday the January 22 Pentagon meeting with Cardinal Christophe Pierre was respectful and routine.
- The Free Press had reported that Under Secretary Elbridge Colby lectured the nuncio, claimed the United States could do what it wants, and invoked the medieval “Avignon Papacy,” a charge officials on both sides now dispute.
- U.S. officials released photos showing a cordial handshake and smiling participants, which they cite as evidence against claims of a bitter reprimand or coercive threats.
- Vice President JD Vance said he would look into the reports but declined to comment on unverified claims, while coverage across outlets ranged from dramatic retellings to detailed denials by named officials.
- Tensions persist as Pope Leo XIV intensifies public appeals for peace, including a Saturday service calling for an end to the Iran war, after meeting Friday with France’s Emmanuel Macron to press dialogue on Middle East crises.