Trump Orders Flags Lowered in Honor of Pope Francis

Tuesday 22 April 2025 - 11:52

By: Zahouani Ilham

Trump Orders Flags Lowered in Honor of Pope Francis

Pope Francis passed away early Monday at the age of 88, prompting US President Donald Trump to declare that American flags be flown at half-staff on all official buildings. This gesture of mourning will be observed across the United States, including civilian and military facilities.

In a statement shared via Truth Social, President Trump said the flag tribute is "out of respect for the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis." He noted that this protocol would also extend to the day of the funeral and be observed at all US embassies, consular offices, and military installations around the world.

Earlier that day, Trump posted a tribute on his social media account, writing, “Rest in peace, Pope Francis. May God bless Pope Francis and all who loved him.”

Pope Francis made his final public appearance from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on Easter Sunday. The Argentine pontiff had been hospitalized for 38 days due to pneumonia before being discharged on March 23. His death marks the end of a papacy that began in 2013.