During his second leg of a Latin America tour, Pope Leo XIV made diplomatic but pointed remarks about Argentina's economy, emphasizing the need for economic policies that benefit all citizens, particularly the poor. His comments were perceived as a critique of President Javier Milei's austerity measures, which have been criticized for disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable. The Pope's journey was expected to be politically sensitive, given Milei's agenda of reducing public spending. Arriving in Buenos Aires, the Pope stressed the importance of an economy that serves people, rather than the other way around, and expressed concern for those struggling to meet basic needs. He also subtly criticized the government's controversial cuts to disability assistance. In what appeared to be a rebuke of Milei's combative style, the Pope emphasized the need for democracy to foster a willingness to listen and careful use of words. The right-wing leader, however, struck a conciliatory tone towards the Pope, praising his predecessor Pope Francis and expressing eagerness to welcome the current Pope. Milei defended his libertarian policies but acknowledged the importance of the rights to life, liberty, and property as the foundation of Argentina's constitution and Western democracies. The Argentine leader, a strong supporter of US President Donald Trump, is expected to seek re-election next year. The Pope's visit to Argentina was seen as a tribute to his predecessor Pope Francis, who did not return to his homeland during his own papacy. Despite having undergone surgery for lung cancer three weeks prior, the Vatican assured that no extraordinary measures were being taken regarding the Pope's health. His doctors reported that the operation to remove a tumor was successful, and the cancer has not spread.