Pope Leo Urges Respect for Venezuela’s Independence Amid U.S. Action Against Maduro
Pope Leo urges respect for Venezuela’s constitution and calls for peaceful resolution following U.S. capture of President Maduro
- Pope Leo called for Venezuela to remain independent and urged peaceful solutions to the ongoing crisis
- The pontiff emphasized respect for human rights and Venezuela’s constitution amid the U.S. capture of President Maduro
- He stressed that the well-being of the Venezuelan people must take precedence over political or economic considerations
Pope Leo has called for Venezuela to remain a sovereign nation, expressing deep concern over recent developments following the U.S. toppling of President Nicolas Maduro.
Speaking on Sunday, January 4, 2026, the pontiff emphasized the importance of human rights and adherence to Venezuela’s constitution.
Addressing pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, the pope said,
“We must not delay in overcoming violence and embarking on paths of justice and peace, while guaranteeing the country’s sovereignty.”
The statement comes after U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to take control of Venezuela’s oil resources following a raid that captured Maduro, who is currently detained in New York facing drug-related charges.
Pope Leo, the first American pope, has previously criticized some of Trump’s policies and in December urged the U.S. president not to use military force to remove Maduro.
He stressed that the well-being of the Venezuelan people must take precedence over all other considerations.
