Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump mourned the death of Pope Francis on Monday, ordering America's national flag to be flown at half-staff and announcing a plan to attend the pontiff's funeral together with first lady Melania Trump. The bishop of Rome died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican announced.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump expressed his condolences during the White House Easter Egg Roll, stating, "I just signed an executive order putting the flags of our country -- all of them, all federal flags and state flags -- at half mast in honor of Pope Francis." He praised the late pope, noting, "He was a good man, worked hard. He loved the world, and it's an honor to do that." The executive order mandates that the U.S. flag be flown at half-staff at the White House, on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts, and on all naval vessels until sunset on the day of interment. This directive extends to all U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad.
In a heartfelt separate statement, Trump wrote, "Rest in Peace Pope Francis! May God Bless him and all who loved him!" He later announced plans to attend the pope's funeral, marking his first overseas trip since returning to the White House for a second term in January, expressing anticipation for the journey on Truth Social.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also conveyed his sympathies, stating, "On Easter Monday, Jeanette and I are saddened by the news of Pope Francis' passing. We unite in prayer with Catholics worldwide for the repose of the pontiff's soul and for this period of transition for the Catholic Church. May He rest in peace."
Meanwhile, former President Joe Biden shared his reflections on the pontiff's impact, expressing "great sadness" over the loss. In a message on X, formerly Twitter, Biden remarked, "Pope Francis will be remembered as one of the most consequential leaders of our time and I am better for having known him." He highlighted the pope's lifelong mission of serving the vulnerable and his outreach to different faiths.