WASHINGTON (TNND) — Pope Leo condemned the “zeal for war” rising across the globe, stating that governments should be working together and not just relying on military force to achieve their diplomatic goals.
His remarks were made during his annual global address, dubbed the “state of the world”, made before from myriad nations’ ambassadors to the Holy See.
“A diplomacy that promotes dialogue and seeks consensus among all parties is being replaced by a diplomacy based on force, by either individuals or groups of allies,” Pope Leo said. “War is back in vogue and a zeal for war is spreading.”
Pope Leo’s annual address comes less than a week after the Trump administration captured Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States may be “running” the country for years.
“The principle established after the Second World War, which prohibited nations from using force to violate the borders of others, has been completely undermined,” Pope Leo said.
While Pope Leo did not directly address the Trump administration’s capture of Maduro, he did say he acknowledged the plight of the Venezuelan people
“I renew my appeal to respect the will of the Venezuelan people, and to safeguard the human and civil rights of all, ensuring a future of stability and concord,” he said.
Pope Leo also called for an immediate cease-fire between Ukraine and Russia and praised the state-solution amid the rebuilding of Gaza.
Leo also said that the United Nations “should play a key role in fostering dialogue and humanitarian support, helping to build a more just future.”
National Headline
