Pope Francis has voiced strong criticism of Donald Trump’s intention to carry out mass deportations of immigrants, labeling such a move as a “disgrace.” This reaction came during a recent appearance on an Italian talk show, nearly ten years after Francis had previously described Trump’s proposition to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border as “not Christian.”

During the broadcast, the first Latin American pope expressed his concerns regarding the incoming U.S. administration’s promises to handle immigration. He stated, “If true, this will be a disgrace, because it makes the poor wretches who have nothing pay the bill for the problem. This won’t do! This is not the way to solve things. That’s not how things are resolved.”

Trump is set to be inaugurated on Monday and has made mass deportations a key theme of his campaign. He has also signaled his intent to issue a series of executive orders on his first day in office to reshape immigration policy.

Back during his 2016 presidential campaign, Francis emphasized his disapproval of Trump’s border wall plans after celebrating Mass near the border. He asserted that those who attempt to exclude migrants with a wall are “not Christian.”

Numerous U.S. bishops have openly rejected Trump’s deportation plans. Cardinal Robert McElroy, who will soon become the archbishop of Washington, D.C., described these policies as “incompatible with Catholic doctrine,” highlighting the scriptural call to “welcome the stranger.”

Additionally, Cardinal Blasé Cupich of Chicago, a key figure in Francis’ circle, remarked that the proposed mass deportations in the Chicago area are “profoundly disturbing” and cause deep hurt. He acknowledged the importance of governments in safeguarding borders and communities while simultaneously emphasizing the moral imperative to uphold human rights and dignity for all individuals in a statement he made from the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.

Pope Francis, who has his roots in Argentina and comes from an Italian immigrant family, has consistently championed the cause of migrants. He advocates for governments to welcome, protect, and integrate immigrants while balancing these efforts against their capabilities. The pope maintains that the rights and dignity of migrants should take precedence over any national security issues, underscoring the humanitarian aspect of immigration policy.