Vance, Vatican Officials Discuss Immigration, Global Tensions

US Vice President JD Vance met with senior Vatican officials, including Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Gallagher, for the first direct talks of the second Trump administration. Discussions focused on ongoing political tensions, particularly regarding the administration's strict immigration stance and reductions in international aid, with the Vatican expressing alarm over these policies. The Vatican reaffirmed good relations with the US but acknowledged candid exchanges on global conflicts, migration, refugees, and prisoners. No meeting with Pope Francis occurred, as he continues to recover from illness and has previously criticized US immigration policies. Both parties recognized the important humanitarian role of the US Catholic Church and expressed hope for continued collaboration. The Vatican reiterated its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and called for peace determined by Ukrainians themselves.