Pope Leo XIV, the first American elected pope, addressed a delegation of journalists aboard the Vatican’s chartered aircraft as it took off for a four‑day visit to France on Friday.
The remarks followed a federal judge’s temporary injunction that halted President Trump’s attempt to bar CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House, a restriction that has yet to be lifted.
Leo said the media was welcome aboard, adding that "good coverage is important" and that "everyone is welcome here," amid a broader dispute over press access.
Earlier this week, Xi Jinping’s state visit to Washington was conducted without live coverage from major U.S. networks, and reporters alleged they were denied entry to the state dinner.
The pope also apologized for a prior incident when his Iberia charter aircraft broke down in the Canary Islands, forcing him to return alone and leaving reporters frustrated.
The next court hearing on the ban is scheduled for Monday, when the judge will decide whether the restriction can be lifted, as the Trump administration prepares to enforce the decision.