Pope Leo XIV Visits Algeria, Honors Saint Augustine

Apr 14, 2026

73 min

Apr 14, 2026 12:31

Pope walks in Augustine’s footsteps on day two of Algeria visit

## Historic Visit to Annaba

Pope Leo XIV visited Annaba, Algeria, on April 14, 2026, marking the second day of his historic trip to the country. The visit included a tour of the archaeological site of Hippo, the ancient city once home to Saint Augustine, a significant figure in Christian theology. The pope also visited a center run by Catholic nuns that supports impoverished elderly people, primarily Muslims.

## Tensions with the US

The visit comes amid tensions with US President Donald Trump, who criticized the pope's calls for peace in the Middle East. Trump accused the pope of "toying" with Iran, a nation he claims seeks nuclear weapons. Despite the criticism, Pope Leo XIV remains steadfast in his message of peace, stating he has no fear of the Trump administration.

## Support for the Pope

The pope's stance has garnered support from Italian and American bishops, as well as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who criticized Trump's remarks. US Vice-President JD Vance, however, urged the Vatican to focus on moral issues rather than political ones.

## Tribute and Call for Change

In his speech in Algiers, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to victims of Algeria's war of independence and called for forgiveness. He encouraged Algerian leaders to embrace greater public participation in politics, advocating for a vibrant and free civil society. The pope's visit to Algeria is part of a broader African tour, with upcoming stops in Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.

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