Pope Leo meets with Vance, who delivers an invitation to visit the White House

Pope Leo XIV held a historic meeting with Vice President JD Vance, during which he presented him with a Chicago Bears jersey emblazoned with "Pope Leo XIV." This gesture marks the first time an U.S. pontiff has interacted publicly in modern history. The papal audience also met with other U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and their families. The meeting appears to be part of efforts by Washington to rebuild ties with Rome, following criticism from Pope Francis over Trump's immigration policies. Meanwhile, during his papacy, Leo has called for "authentic and lasting peace" in Ukraine, aligning with President Trump's recent initiatives to stop the conflict.