Key facts
- Pope Leo XIV has begun his summer vacation at Castel Gandolfo.
- The Pope has been active on international issues like AI regulation and war.
- He also addressed internal church matters, including an apology for the Holy See's role in slavery.
- Leo's actions have positioned him as a significant global statesman.
- The Pope's vacation will last until July 27, with all audiences suspended.
Pope Leo XIV has commenced his summer vacation at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo, concluding a period marked by decisive leadership on both the international stage and within the church. The Pope, elected in May 2025, has emerged as a significant global statesman, addressing critical issues such as artificial intelligence regulation and international conflicts. His recent actions include a visit to Lampedusa on July 4 to honor migrants and a strong stance against the U.S.-Israel war in Iran, which led to public exchanges with President Donald Trump.
In his first encyclical, 'Magnifica Humanitas,' released in late May, Pope Leo XIV called for stringent regulation of AI, particularly concerning its use in warfare, and stated that lethal decisions should not be entrusted to AI systems. This stance has created a point of contention with the Trump administration, which has pursued deregulation in the AI sector. The encyclical also contained a historic apology from the Holy See for its historical role in facilitating slavery, a significant gesture given the Pope's own family history.
Before his vacation, Pope Leo XIV also focused on migrant issues, visiting the Canary Islands and Lampedusa to advocate for the dignity of migrants and remind the U.S. of its immigrant roots. His January speech to the Holy See diplomatic corps, denouncing the use of force in international relations, is seen as a pivotal moment that elevated his profile as a global advocate for peace.
Former Cardinal Robert Prevost expressed hope for restoration and rest during the Pope's break. The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will remain at Castel Gandolfo until July 27, with all audiences suspended. The Apostolic Palace on the estate will serve as his residence for security reasons, allowing essential Vatican operations to continue from there.