US President Donald Trump has triggered fresh controversy after sharing an AI-generated image portraying himself in a Christ-like form on his social media platform Truth Social.
The image shows Trump in flowing robes with a glowing aura, appearing to “heal” a person, alongside symbolic elements often associated with religious imagery. The post quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions across social media.
Many critics, including religious voices, called the depiction inappropriate. Some said using imagery linked to Jesus Christ for political messaging was disrespectful. “Such portrayals cross ethical lines and hurt religious sentiments,” several commentators argued.
However, Trump’s supporters defended the post, saying it was meant as satire or a creative expression using modern AI tools. They pointed to the increasing use of artificial intelligence in political messaging and online culture.
War of Words With Pope Leo XIV
The post comes amid rising tensions between Trump and Pope Leo XIV. In a separate message, Trump sharply criticised the Pope, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.”
“I’m not a big fan of Pope Leo. He’s a very liberal person,” Trump told reporters, adding that the pontiff does not believe in “stopping crime.”
In a longer post, Trump accused the Pope of aligning with the “radical left” and opposing US policies on issues like Iran and Venezuela. He also questioned the circumstances of the Pope’s elevation, suggesting it was politically influenced.
Disagreement Over War and Immigration
The tensions between the two leaders have been building over recent global issues. Pope Leo XIV has repeatedly called for peace and restraint, especially in the ongoing Iran conflict.
During a recent address, the Pope warned against what he described as the “delusion of omnipotence” driving war. He said, “God does not bless any conflict,” and urged leaders to choose dialogue over violence.
He has also criticised US immigration policies, including deportations, calling the treatment of migrants “inhuman” and “an affront to human dignity.”
Trump, in response, said he does not want “a Pope who thinks it’s OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon” or one who criticises US leadership decisions.
