I certainly don’t think the ambassador - called the nuncio in Church-speak - ever dreamed that the Pope would do something like this. I agree with the poster above, who said it wasn’t spineless but backstabbing.
The nuncio also set up the visit to the Little Sisters of the Poor, which was also not on the official schedule. I wonder if Francis will turn on them too?
The Little Sisters aren’t as politically radioactive so disappointing them may be more subtle.