US President Donald Trump congratulated Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States on his election as the new pope of the Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, saying it is a "great honor" to welcome the first American pontiff.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, Prevost, now named Leo XIV, was elected as the 267th pontiff to succeed Pope Francis who died on April 21. He spent much of his career as a missionary in South America, and led the Vatican's office of bishops.
"Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who was just named Pope. It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope," Trump wrote on Truth Social.
"What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!," he added.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also extended his congratulations to the new pope.
"This is a moment of profound significance for the Catholic Church, offering renewed hope and continuity amid the 2025 Jubilee Year to over a billion faithful worldwide. The papacy carries a sacred and solemn responsibility," Rubio sad in a statement.
"Jeanette and I are united in prayer for His Holiness, may the Holy Spirit impart wisdom, strength, and grace as he shepherds the Church. The United States looks forward to deepening our enduring relationship with the Holy See with the first American pontiff." (Yonhap)
