Leading conservative Catholics tell the BBC why they back the American pontiff in his spat with Trump.
The separatists say their decison reflects responsibility, restraint and respect for human dignity.
Trump posted a lengthy message on Truth Social criticising Pope Leo XIV, and posted, then deleted, an image of himself appearing as a Christ-like figure.
BBC's Sarah Smith looks at how the president's most ardent supporters are reacting to his latest social media posts.
Christian allies of the president call the AI-generated image offensive as Trump says he thought it showed him as a doctor.
Italy's prime minister and the US president are close allies, but Trump has refused to apologise to the "very weak" Pope Leo XIV.
Leo XIV wants the world's attention on a continent vital to the Church's future, an aide says.
Trump attacked the first American leader of the Roman Catholic Church after he condemned the US president's threat against Iran.
Pope Leo says he has "no intention to debate" US President Donald Trump, telling reporters he is "not a politician" and his message remains the same - "to promote peace".
