By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Pope Leo XIV urges calm, justice as Venezuela faces tense political moment
Pope Leo XIV has made a heartfelt appeal for peace and restraint in Venezuela, calling on all sides to put the welfare of the people above conflict and power struggles.
Speaking during the Sunday Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope reacted to the growing political tension in Venezuela following the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro by United States forces in Caracas and his transfer to New York to face trial.
The development has sparked fresh uncertainty in a country already weighed down by years of political division and economic hardship.
Addressing the crowd, Pope Leo stressed that violence must not define Venezuela’s future. He urged leaders and institutions to uphold the nation’s sovereignty, respect its constitution, and protect the human and civil rights of every citizen.
“The good of the Venezuelan people must come first,” the Pope said, adding that true peace can only be built through justice, dialogue, and respect for the rule of law. He noted that ordinary citizens, especially the poor, often bear the heaviest burden when political crises escalate.
The Pontiff encouraged efforts aimed at rebuilding trust and cooperation, describing them as essential steps toward stability and long-term harmony in the country. He also reminded the international community of its responsibility to act with fairness and restraint.
Pope Leo invited Catholics and people of goodwill around the world to pray for Venezuela, assuring the nation of his personal prayers.
He placed the country under the protection of Our Lady of Coromoto, Venezuela’s patroness, alongside Saints José Gregorio Hernández and Carmen Rendiles.
Concluding his message, the Pope called on believers not to lose hope, urging them to place their trust in God as a source of peace and healing for nations affected by conflict.
“Let us remain united in prayer,” he said, “and stand in solidarity with all peoples suffering because of war and unrest.”
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