In a rare and politically charged interview with the American conservative outlet Breitbart, Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece praised Donald Trump, calling his election a “positive development” and describing the former U.S. president as a “force for good in the world.”
The interview, which followed Breitbart journalist Matthew Boyle’s appearance at the Delphi Economic Forum, marked the second high-profile Greek figure—after Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis—to engage with the Trump-friendly media outlet.
“The election of President Trump was a positive one.
The reforms he is attempting are necessary, though they must be approached with understanding and prudence,” the Archbishop said.
He also warned of escalating global tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China, urging caution to avoid potential conflicts. “I commend him for many reasons,” he continued. “I believe he can contribute positively to the world. That said, a bit more restraint would be wise—people fear extreme shifts and long for stability.”
Ieronymos emphasized the Church’s role as a stabilizing force in uncertain times and noted what he perceived as a spiritual transformation in Trump, especially following two alleged assassination attempts. “With steady steps, he can offer something good to the world,” he stated.
The Archbishop also voiced support for Trump’s stance on gender identity, praising his assertion that there are “only two genders,” and remarked that more European leaders appear to be adopting similar positions.
Expressing concern over Western cultural trends, he criticized transgender issues, describing Trump as a “stabilizing figure against radical extremes.”
“Same-sex marriage is still largely rejected by Greek society. We defend freedom—but not when it comes in the form of extreme activism that provokes public sentiment,” Ieronymos added.
Breitbart’s coverage highlighted the Greek Orthodox Church's significant influence, noting its presence across Greece and abroad. Archbishop Ieronymos leads a body of over 100 bishops and 8,500 clergy, with the Church’s global membership exceeding 15 million.
The Eastern Orthodox Church is the world’s second-largest Christian denomination, counting over 300 million faithful.