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President Donald Trump on Wednesday wished Pope Leo XIV a speedy recovery following his lung cancer diagnosis, revealing that he is friends with the pontiff’s brother, whom he described as an enthusiastic MAGA supporter.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as he traveled from Arizona to Montana, Trump expressed optimism about the 71-year-old pontiff’s recovery following surgery to remove part of his right lung.
“I want to see Pope Leo get well. I hear the prognosis for this type of problem. It’s cancer. It’s a big deal. Anytime you have cancer,” the president said. “But the prognosis looks good, I’ve observed. And we just want to wish him our love and best wishes.”
POPE LEO XIV BEGINS HISTORIC 4-DAY VISIT TO FRANCE
President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after a campaign rally in Bullhead City, Arizona, October 14, 2026. Later in the day, Trump wished Pope Leo XIV a speedy recovery following his lung cancer diagnosis. (Kent NISHIMURA / AFP via Getty Images)
Trump then discussed his friendship with the pope’s brother and his wife, describing them as enthusiastic supporters of the president.
“Her brother is a friend of mine, who’s a great guy – he’s a fantastic guy – and his wife. You know, they’re big Trump supporters. They have MAGA all over their house,” he continued. “And I can say that his brother loves him very much. He loves the Pope very much, and that’s good, but I just want to wish him well. Get well soon.”
The president’s remarks came a day after the Vatican announced that Leo had been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, following surgery at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome.
According to the Holy See Press Office, doctors removed the lower lobe of the pontiff’s right lung in a procedure that lasted about 90 minutes. Doctors reported no complications.
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Pope Leo XIV delivers the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, Sunday, October 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)
The Vatican said the cancer diagnosis was confirmed by an examination of tissue removed during the surgery, consistent with the results of tests carried out before the procedure.
Leo previously revealed that doctors discovered a small bump in his lung at an early stage and recommended surgery. After the operation, he woke up normally and returned to his hospital room after a brief period of observation, according to the Vatican.
Pope Leo XIV met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Vatican last May; Rubio has been praised by President Donald Trump as someone who is able to bridge gaps in diplomatic relations like no other. (Vatican Media/Vatican Pool/Getty Images)
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Anders Hagstrom and Jasmine Baehr of Fox News Digital contributed to this report.
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