Pope Francis Dies at 88, Prompting Global Reactions Amid Vatican-China Tensions

The death of Pope Francis has prompted a wide array of tributes and reactions worldwide, reflecting his impact as a spiritual and moral leader. While world leaders and figures such as Leonardo DiCaprio praised his environmental advocacy and commitment to social justice, the response from China was notably muted, highlighting ongoing tensions between Beijing and the Vatican, especially regarding religious freedom and Taiwan. In the United States, Pope Francis was recognized as a vocal critic of Donald Trump, particularly on issues of immigration, with reactions from Trump and his administration described as restrained compared to other global tributes. His family in Argentina recalled his humility, advocacy for inclusion and ecology, and his ability to connect with people beyond religious boundaries. Pope Francis' legacy includes efforts to bridge divides, a focus on the marginalized, and a call for urgent action on climate change. His passing is seen both as a symbolic end of an era and a call to continue his message of compassion and unity.