A dramatic report alleging that the Pentagon threatened the Vatican is now being forcefully denied by top officials on both sides.
Brian Burch stated that Cardinal Christophe Pierre has rejected the claims outright, calling them “fabrications” that were “just invented.”
The controversy stems from a report by The Free Press, which alleged that Elbridge A. Colby delivered a harsh warning to Pierre during a January meeting—supposedly emphasizing U.S. military power and suggesting the Church should align with American interests.
The report even claimed that a Pentagon official referenced the Avignon Papacy—a historically charged comparison implying pressure on the Vatican.
Flat Denial from Both Sides
According to Burch, none of that happened.
After speaking directly with Cardinal Pierre, the ambassador said the meeting was described as “frank and cordial,” with no threats of any kind. He also dismissed the more sensational elements of the report—like the Avignon comparison—as entirely unfounded.
Burch added that Pierre himself confirmed the tone of the discussion was respectful, even where disagreements may have existed.
Diplomatic Damage Control
The ambassador didn’t just deny the report—he criticized how it spread, suggesting that some journalists and commentators exaggerated or misrepresented a routine diplomatic meeting to create unnecessary tension between the United States and the Vatican.
Given the historically delicate relationship between Washington and the Holy See, even unverified claims like these can carry significant geopolitical weight.
Bigger Picture
At its core, this episode highlights how quickly sensitive diplomatic narratives can escalate:
A single report can trigger international controversy
Historical references (like the Avignon Papacy) amplify perceived угрозы
Officials are then forced into rapid response mode to contain fallout
For now, both U.S. and Vatican representatives appear aligned in shutting down the story.
But the incident serves as a reminder: in global diplomacy, perception can be just as powerful—and dangerous—as reality.
