
Judging by an image he posted of himself wearing a liturgical mitre and papal robes and his statements in recent days about his desire to become pontiff, US President Donald Trump seems to be taking an unusual interest in the Vatican's role in world politics. But he's not the only world leader with skin in the game.
At a time of great international tension, religious radicalisation and apocalyptic nuclear threats, the temptation for countries to influence the conclave is strong.