Archive · 10 Jan 2026
Pope Leo XIV condemns war and urges respect for Venezuela
Pope Leo XIV gave a strong speech where he said using military force to solve problems is wrong and that war is becoming too common.
He talked about Venezuela and said the world should respect the rights of its people.
The Pope also mentioned that freedom of speech is getting limited and that Christians are facing discrimination.
He didn't mention President Trump by name, but he has criticized some of Trump's policies before.
This speech was different from his usual calm tone and was his first big speech since becoming pope.
Pope Leo XIV delivered a fiery speech condemning the use of military force for diplomatic goals and the rise of war.
He called for respecting the will of the Venezuelan people and safeguarding their human and civil rights following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces.
The Pope criticized practices such as abortion, euthanasia, and surrogate births, and warned about shrinking freedom of expression in Western countries.
He also highlighted a 'subtle form of religious discrimination' faced by Christians in Europe and the Americas.
This was Pope Leo XIV's first major foreign policy speech since his election, marking a shift from his previously more diplomatic tone.
- Who
- Pope Leo XIV
- What
- Delivered a fiery speech condemning war and advocating for human rights in Venezuela
- When
- January 9
- Where
- Vatican City
- Why
- To express concerns over global conflicts, the use of military force, and the protection of human rights
Pope Leo XIV's Stance
US Government's Actions
Use of Military Force
Pope Leo XIV's Stance
Condemns the use of military force for diplomatic goals, stating that war is 'back in vogue' and a 'zeal for war is spreading'.
US Government's Actions
Authorized the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US forces.
Venezuela's Sovereignty
Pope Leo XIV's Stance
Calls for respecting the will of the Venezuelan people and safeguarding their human and civil rights.
US Government's Actions
Intervened in Venezuela's internal affairs by capturing its president.
Human Rights and Immigration
Pope Leo XIV's Stance
Advocates for protecting human rights and humane treatment of migrants.
US Government's Actions
Implements strict immigration policies and has been criticized for its approach to migrant treatment.
- Key Figures
- Pope Leo XIV, Donald Trump, Nicolás Maduro
- Event
- Pope Leo XIV's annual foreign policy speech
- Date
- January 9
- Location
- Vatican City
- Audience
- 184 ambassadors accredited to the Vatican
- Pope's Background
- Former US Cardinal Robert Prevost, served as a missionary in Peru
- Duration of Speech
- 43 minutes
