Pope Leo XIV has called on the United States to avoid military intervention in Venezuela, urging Washington to pursue dialogue or economic pressure instead. Speaking to reporters during his flight home from Turkey and Lebanon-his first overseas trip as pope-he emphasized the importance of seeking diplomatic solutions when addressing the situation in Venezuela.
The Pope stressed it would be “better to search for ways of dialogue, or perhaps pressure, including economic pressure.” His comments come amid ongoing discussions within the Trump administration about various strategies aimed at countering what they describe as Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s involvement in drug trafficking that has adversely affected American society. Maduro has repeatedly denied any connections to drug trafficking.
When asked about President Donald Trump’s threats of military action against Maduro, Pope Leo suggested that the U.S. should explore alternative methods to instigate change, stating, “if that is what they want to do in the United States.”
The Pope pointed out the inconsistency in U.S. policies regarding Venezuela, noting that communication fluctuates. He referred to a recent phone call between Trump and Maduro, highlighting the contrasting possibility of military operations as a looming threat. “The voices that come from the United States change with a certain frequency,” he observed.
In previous reports, it has been indicated that Washington has contemplated scenarios that might involve attempts to overthrow Maduro, particularly as U.S. forces have engaged in operations aimed at suspected drug-trafficking vessels near Venezuela.
Pope Leo, who was elected several months ago and has extensive experience in Latin America from his years as a cleric in Peru, underscored the need for a consistent approach from the U.S. in dealing with Venezuela. His remarks resonate with the broader call for diplomacy over aggression in international relations.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/pope-leo-urges-us-to-avoid-military-action-to-remove-venezuelas-nicolas-maduro-10398766/
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Publish Date: 2025-12-02 23:11:00
