America's top diplomat, Marco Rubio, is set to visit the first US pope, Leo XIV, on Thursday.

This move aims to ease tensions between Washington and the Vatican while also promoting President Donald Trump's interests.

The meeting comes weeks after Trump criticized Pope Leo over his anti-war stance.

Rubio, a devout Catholic, seeks to downplay the rift ahead of the private audience with the pontiff.

Following the talks, he will meet with Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

The Vatican has expressed willingness to listen to Rubio's concerns, noting that Washington initiated the meeting.

The Trump administration had initially celebrated Pope Leo's election last year.

However, relations between the two have since deteriorated sharply.

In a rare attack, Trump called the pope 'WEAK on crime and terrible for foreign policy.' This was in response to Pope Leo's calls for peace in the Middle East and his condemnation of threats against Iranian civilization as 'truly unacceptable.'

Rubio emphasized that there is much to discuss with the Vatican, particularly regarding religious freedom.

The Vatican and Washington share similar views on this issue.

Parolin also mentioned international topics such as Latin America, Cuba, and Lebanon for discussion.

Despite efforts to ease tensions, Trump again criticized Pope Leo in an interview, alleging that he believes it's 'OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.' In response, the pontiff emphasized his commitment to preaching peace and the Gospel.

He urged critics to speak truthfully if they wish to criticize him.

Parolin defended Pope Leo's actions, stating that attacking the pope seems strange.

He reaffirmed the Church's stance against all nuclear weapons for years.

Rubio's visit aims to mend these strained relations amid ongoing tensions.