He will also meet “with Italian government counterparts” — expected to include Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Defense Minister Guido Crosetto — in an attempt to “advance bilateral relations and align on global challenges,” according to a U.S. official statement.
Rubio previously met Leo alongside Vice President JD Vance in May 2025 following the pope’s inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square. His last visit to Italy dates back to February, when he and Vance met Meloni on the sidelines of the Olympic Winter Games.
The Vatican announced the pope is also meeting Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk Thursday afternoon.
Jacopo Barigazzi contributed to this report.
This article has been updated.
