Pope Leo XIV condemns 'diplomacy based on force' amid rising global conflicts

Time reported that Pope Leo XIV decried a growing "zeal for war" and warned against a "diplomacy based on force" in a Friday address to the Vatican's diplomatic corps as Russia carried out fresh strikes in Ukraine and tensions rose between the U.S. and several nations. The pontiff, who did not name specific leaders, called for the protection of Venezuelans' rights, citing "recent developments." The comments followed what the report described as U.S.

attacks on Venezuela and the seizure of that country's President Nicolas Maduro, and came amid President Donald Trump’s threats against countries including Colombia, Iran, Mexico and the territory of Greenland. In the months since he was inaugurated as the first pope from the U.S., Leo has repeatedly raised concerns about human rights, urged protection of Venezuela's sovereignty after the operation to capture Maduro and criticized aggressive immigration policies.

In his speech the Pope stressed "international humanitarian law," warned of the "devastating effects of war" on hospitals, homes and infrastructure, and urged an "immediate" ceasefire and dialogue in Ukraine. He called on the United Nations to foster dialogue and humanitarian support and to pursue policies aimed at unity.

Key Topics

World, Pope Leo Xiv, Russia, Ukraine, Venezuela, Donald Trump