Pope Leo XIV Urges US Against Military Intervention in Venezuela, Advocates Dialogue & Economic Pressure for Maduro Ouster

Pope Leo XIV Warns US: Avoid Military Action in Venezuela, Prioritize Dialogue

ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT, December 2, 2025 – Pope Leo XIV, concluding his inaugural apostolic journey, delivered a clear message to the U.S. administration on Tuesday, strongly advising against any military attempt to depose Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Instead, the pontiff advocated for a strategy rooted in dialogue or sustained economic pressure to foster change in the South American nation.

A Call for Peaceful Resolution

Speaking to journalists while flying home from significant visits to Turkey and Lebanon, Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. Pope and a former cleric with extensive experience in Peru, weighed in on the contentious issue. He acknowledged that the Trump administration had been considering various options, including forceful removal, citing concerns over Maduro's alleged role in supplying illegal drugs that have impacted American lives—accusations vehemently denied by the socialist Venezuelan president.

"It is better to search for ways of dialogue, or perhaps pressure, including economic pressure," Pope Leo XIV stated unequivocally when asked about President Trump's previous threats of military action. He underscored the importance of seeking alternative, non-military avenues if the United States truly desired to instigate change in Venezuela.

Mixed Signals and Escalating Tensions

Recent reports, including those from Reuters, had highlighted that U.S. considerations included direct efforts to overthrow the Venezuelan leader. This came amidst a substantial U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean and nearly three months of concentrated strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats off Venezuela's coast, indicating a potential escalation of operations.

Pope Leo XIV also pointed out the perceived inconsistency in messages from the Trump administration regarding its policy towards Venezuela. "On one hand, it seems there was a call between the two presidents," he remarked, referring to a reported phone conversation between Trump and Maduro. "On the other hand, there is the danger, there is the possibility there will be some activity, some (military) operation." He concluded by noting the frequent shifts in "the voices that come from the United States," highlighting the ambiguity of Washington's intentions.

Originally from Chicago and elected in May, Pope Leo XIV's counsel reflects a deep understanding of regional complexities, urging diplomacy over conflict in a volatile international landscape.