United States President Donald Trump has expressed hope for the recovery of Pope Leo XIV after the Catholic leader underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from his lung.
Trump made the remarks on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, while speaking to reporters after addressing a campaign rally in Arizona.
“I want to see Pope Leo get well,” the president said. “It’s big stuff. Anytime you have cancer, but the prognosis seems to be good.”
He added, “I just want to wish him well. Get better fast.”
The Pope, 71, underwent surgery in Rome on Tuesday to remove a cancerous tumour from his lung. The procedure was completed successfully, according to reports, and his doctors said his recovery was progressing well.
On Wednesday, the medical team reported that the pontiff was out of bed, walking and eating following the operation.
However, he was awaiting biopsy results to determine whether the cancer had spread beyond the affected area.
Global leaders wish Pope Leo speedy recovery
Trump’s message adds to the expressions of support from world leaders and Catholics following the Pope’s diagnosis.
Among those who have offered their best wishes is Britain’s King Charles III, who is also receiving treatment for cancer.
Prayers have also come from the Pope’s former diocese in Chiclayo, Peru, as well as his hometown of Chicago in the United States.
Pope Leo, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, has frequently spoken about migration, human dignity and the treatment of vulnerable people.
His positions on immigration have occasionally placed him at odds with the Trump administration’s policies, including its crackdown on migrants and use of detention facilities.
Despite their differences, Trump said he had previously spoken with the Pope’s brother, Louis Prevost, whom he described as a friend.
“His brother’s a friend of mine who’s a great, he’s a fantastic guy, and his wife. You know, they’re big Trump supporters,” he said.
Trump added that his friend’s affection for the Pope was important to him.
The Vatican has not yet disclosed whether the cancer has spread, with further medical findings expected after the biopsy results become available.
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