Donald Trump sparks outrage over bizarre way he announced Pope Francis’ death

President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have been met with backlash over how they addressed the death of Pope Francis.

In a statement shared on Easter Monday, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell of the Vatican announced the Pope had died at the age of 88 that morning.

Following his death, nine days of mourning have begun, with the funeral taking place on Saturday (26 April) as the church begins the process of choosing another Pope.

Trump spoke from the White House on Monday and announced that he signed an executive order for flags on all US public buildings and military posts to fly at half-mast in tribute to Pope Francis. Strangely, the announcement was made during the annual White House Easter Egg roll while standing between his wife and the Easter Bunny.

The bizarre scene has sparked outrage. One viewer on X remarked: “Love Trump’s heartfelt tribute to the Pope, delivered next to a large rabbit that possibly only exists in his own mind.”

“This is a joke AI… no?” another confused viewer mused.

Similarly, someone else shared: “Tell me it’s a fake.”

“It looks like a deleted scene from Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” a fourth shared.

“He has no sense of decorum,” a fifth outraged viewer posted on X.

Love Trump’s heartfelt tribute to the pope, delivered next to a large rabbit that possibly only exists in his own mind. pic.twitter.com/ZI1a8e7wQx

— Mister P 🎗️ (@andypren) April 21, 2025

The President also used his Truth Social platform to share a tribute to Pope Francis explaining that he and Melania Trump would be attending the funeral, and said he was ‘looking forward’ to it.

"Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!" Trump said.

However, people were left reeling by his comment. with one person writing: "Who looks forward to going to a funeral? What a vile thing to say."

While another added: "Nobody looks forward to going to a funeral. Funerals are somber, depressing occasions where people cry and tell stories about the deceased."

And a third said: "Utterly weird to say you are "looking forward" to attending a funeral. Nobody says that."

Details of Pope Francis’ funeral have been revealed, with mass to take place at 10am local time this Saturday (26 April), celebrated by the dean of the College of Cardinals.

His final will and testament have also been released by the Vatican, including his wishes surrounding his burial.

Vatican camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell said on Monday: "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.

"With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune."