Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong moral appeal for calm, legality, and humanitarian consideration following a sudden U.S. military operation in Venezuela that has triggered global political and religious reactions. Speaking during his traditional Sunday Angelus address, the pontiff said he was closely following developments in the South American nation “with deep concern,” urging that the welfare of ordinary Venezuelans be placed above political or military objectives.
The pope’s remarks come in the aftermath of a dramatic operation carried out on January 3, during which U.S. forces struck strategic locations in Caracas. According to Venezuelan authorities, the incident resulted in dozens of fatalities, including both civilians and members of the security forces. Washington later confirmed that President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores had been taken into custody and transferred out of the country.
U.S. officials subsequently announced that Maduro and several senior figures now face federal charges in New York related to alleged narco-terrorism and international drug trafficking. The announcement has intensified debate over sovereignty, international law, and the future leadership of Venezuela.
Pope Calls for Law, Dialogue, and Protection of the Vulnerable
In his address, Pope Leo XIV emphasized respect for constitutional order and national sovereignty, warning against decisions driven by force rather than justice. He highlighted the importance of protecting human dignity, civil liberties, and especially the poor, who have already endured years of economic hardship.
The pope concluded his message by entrusting Venezuela to its patron saint, Our Lady of Coromoto, and encouraged Catholics worldwide to pray for peace, reconciliation, and wisdom for those making critical decisions.
Deep Vatican Ties to Venezuela
The Vatican has long maintained close diplomatic and pastoral connections with Venezuela. Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, a Venezuelan native, currently serves in one of the most influential administrative roles within the Holy See. In addition, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, previously represented the Holy See in Caracas as apostolic nuncio.
Reflecting this close relationship, Venezuela’s Catholic leadership responded quickly. The Venezuelan Episcopal Conference released a statement calling for national prayer, restraint, and unity. Church leaders expressed solidarity with families affected by the violence and urged political actors to reject further escalation.
International Reactions and Political Uncertainty
The U.S. action has created a volatile political environment both inside and outside Venezuela. While some opposition figures have called for immediate international recognition of alternative leadership, divisions remain over who should govern during the transition. Public demonstrations supporting and opposing the intervention have taken place in multiple countries, highlighting the global implications of the crisis.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump signaled that further military involvement has not been ruled out, while also suggesting that cooperation from interim authorities could prevent escalation. His comments regarding Venezuela’s oil sector have added another layer of geopolitical tension to an already complex situation.
A Nation at a Crossroads
As Venezuela enters a period of profound uncertainty, international observers warn that the coming days will be critical. Calls from religious leaders, diplomats, and humanitarian groups increasingly stress the need for dialogue, legal clarity, and protection of civilians.
With leadership questions unresolved and regional stability at stake, the situation continues to evolve rapidly, drawing the attention of governments, faith communities, and global institutions alike.
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