Pope Leo Calls for Dialogue Over Military Action in Venezuela Amid U.S.-Maduro Tensions
VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo has urged dialogue and economic pressure rather than military intervention in Venezuela, amid escalating tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, according to Vatican reports.
The pontiff made his remarks during a news conference aboard the papal plane returning from Lebanon on Tuesday. He expressed concern about the possibility of a military operation in Venezuela, noting the risks such action would pose to the Venezuelan people.
“We are trying to find a way to calm the situation, seeking above all the good of the people, because in these situations it is the people who suffer, not the authorities,” Pope Leo said. He highlighted the mixed signals coming from the United States, referencing a recent telephone conversation between Trump and Maduro alongside the threat of military action, including a potential invasion.
The pope’s comments come as the U.S. has deployed its largest military presence in the Caribbean, including strikes against vessels suspected of drug trafficking. Reports indicate that President Trump delivered an ultimatum to Maduro during a phone call this week, demanding that he surrender power immediately. Maduro reportedly refused and instead called for a “global amnesty” for himself and his allies.
Pope Leo emphasized the importance of seeking dialogue within the framework of economic pressure, suggesting this approach as a preferable alternative to military operations. He acknowledged the unclear signals from the U.S. administration regarding its policy toward Venezuela.
The situation remains tense as the U.S. continues to increase pressure on Maduro’s regime, which has been accused of involvement in illegal drug trafficking. The pope’s appeal underscores the humanitarian concerns amid the political crisis, focusing on the welfare of the Venezuelan people rather than the authorities involved.
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