The U.S. State Department has canceled plans for a prominent exhibit featuring a bull statue due to concerns that it might evoke associations with Baal, a pagan deity linked by some to satanic rituals, according to a recent report.

Deputy Secretary of State Chris Landau expressed his apprehensions in an internal email distributed to staff on August 19. He specifically pointed out the “Golden Bull imagery” that was to be showcased during an international exposition in Belgrade, Serbia, set for next year.

Landau’s concerns stemmed from his research into contemporary interpretations of the golden bull symbol. He noted in his message that such imagery often serves as a metaphor in discussions about financial obsessions, referencing the iconic Charging Bull statue on Wall Street.

“The imagery of a golden bull or calf is frequently invoked metaphorically today,” Landau wrote, underscoring his worry that the statue could become a “distraction” from the exhibit’s intended purpose.

His email reportedly drew mixed reactions from within the department. Insiders conveyed that his concerns about the bull’s symbolism seemed exaggerated and unnecessary.

One official commented, “It’s just totally weird stuff and it’s really indicative of the guy,” while another quipped, “Literally, no one thinks about Baal unless they’re spending way too much time online, which Landau is.”

Humor was not in short supply among staff, with one jokingly suggesting that Landau needed to be reminded that the bull in question was a Western symbol, not an Eastern one.

The controversy surrounding Baal has gained traction online this year, fueled by antisemitic conspiracy theories connected to the Jeffrey Epstein case and Iranian propaganda. Some even claimed Epstein had a bank account named “Baal,” which was later debunked as a misunderstanding.

Landau has a history of making waves within the State Department. His time as U.S. ambassador to Mexico garnered him a substantial online following, yet his term has not been without friction.

Sources revealed that he clashed with Trump ally Paolo Zampolli and faced scrutiny for his handling of Venezuela policy earlier in June.

Reports also surfaced indicating that Landau attempted to take over planning for the Belgrade exposition, previously managed by Undersecretary of State Sarah Rogers.

Rogers’ team felt sidelined as Landau’s dismissive attitude toward other exhibit ideas became apparent. He reportedly rejected suggestions like including a moon rock, stating, “No one cares about the moonrock.”

Even an interactive element, such as a mechanical bucking bull for visitors to ride, was scrapped due to liability concerns. Questions about the overall direction of the exhibit have arisen as the May 2027 opening date of the expo approaches.

Despite the hiccups, officials are optimistic about resolving the bull debacle. “We’ll have the bull sorted out by then,” one source reassured. “And it won’t be Satanic.”

The decision to halt the exhibit signifies an ongoing challenge for the State Department, balancing its cultural outreach with sensitivity to potential controversies.

As preparations for Expo 2027 in Belgrade continue, it remains to be seen how the State Department will navigate the complexities of messaging and symbolism in its displays.

With scrutiny on the rise regarding cultural interpretations and international image, every detail will arguably matter more than ever before leading up to the exposition.

This incident demonstrates the challenges faced by officials in promoting U.S. interests abroad while managing domestic perceptions and international relations.