US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States can maintain a productive relationship with the Catholic Church despite rising tensions triggered by President Donald Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo. Rubio made the remarks on Friday before departing Rome, following a visit to the Vatican a day earlier.

Rubio described his Vatican meeting on Thursday as “very positive,” signaling that diplomatic engagement between Washington and the Holy See remains stable despite recent political friction. He said discussions were constructive and focused on maintaining open channels between both sides.

Addressing Trump’s criticism of Pope Leo over comments related to the Iran war and other geopolitical issues, Rubio defended the president’s approach. He said Trump acts in what he believes are the best interests of the United States and “will always speak clearly about how he feels about the US and US policy.”

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At the same time, Rubio emphasized that disagreements should not undermine broader institutional relations. He stated that the United States can continue to maintain a “very productive and fruitful and important relationship” with the Catholic Church, noting its global influence and humanitarian role across regions.

On Cuba, Rubio highlighted Washington’s ongoing pressure campaign against Havana, including new sanctions targeting a Cuban military-controlled conglomerate and a mining joint venture. He said the measures are intended to push the island’s communist leadership toward economic and political reforms amid a worsening energy crisis.

Rubio also noted that the United States has provided $6 million in humanitarian assistance to Cubans through the Church and had offered $100 million directly to the Cuban government for distribution, but claimed the offer was not accepted or implemented.

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