Trump expresses support for Pope Leo XIV following lung cancer diagnosis

<p>President Donald Trump wished Pope Leo XIV a speedy recovery on Wednesday after the pontiff was diagnosed with lung cancer. Trump stated that he is friends with the pope's brother, who he described as an enthusiastic supporter of his political campaign.</p><p>While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One during a trip from Arizona to Montana, Trump expressed optimism regarding the 71-year-old pontiff's recovery after surgery to remove part of his right lung. He said, "I want to see Pope Leo get well. I hear the prognosis for that type of a problem. It's a cancer. It's big stuff. Anytime you have cancer. But the prognosis seems to be good, I've watched. And we just want to wish him our love and our best wishes."</p><p>Trump also mentioned his friendship with the pope's brother and his wife, noting their support for him. He remarked, "His brother is a friend of mine, who's a great — he's a fantastic guy — and his wife. You know, they're big Trump supporters. They have MAGA all over their house. And I can say that his brother loves him a lot. Loves the pope a lot, and that's good, but I just want to wish him well. Get better fast."</p><p>The president's comments followed the Vatican's announcement that Pope Leo XIV had been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, after surgery at Agostino Gemelli University Hospital in Rome. The procedure, which lasted approximately 90 minutes, involved the removal of the lower lobe of the pontiff's right lung, and doctors reported no complications.</p><p>The Vatican confirmed that the cancer diagnosis was established through an examination of tissue collected during surgery, consistent with findings from tests conducted prior to the operation. Leo had previously disclosed that doctors found a small lump in his lung at an early stage and recommended surgery. After the operation, he returned to his hospital room following a brief observation period.</p><p>Fox News Digital's Anders Hagstrom and Jasmine Baehr contributed to this report.</p>