While flying back to Rome from Beirut on Tuesday, Pope Leo told the United States to be careful in handling Venezuela. He said using the military could be dangerous and suggested trying talks or using economic pressure instead.
“It looks like there could be some kind of action in Venezuelan territory,” Leo said. “I think it is better to try other ways, maybe talks, maybe pressure, but not conflict.”
The pope has experience in South America. He spent years as a missionary and bishop in Peru. He said church leaders in Venezuela are trying to calm the situation.
Leo also mentioned that President Donald Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had spoken on the phone. He added that messages from the U.S. change often, so it is important to pay attention.
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During the press conference, Leo spoke about other topics too. He said Europe and North America should be less afraid of immigrants. He said some fears come from people who want to stop others because of their religion, country, or race.
He praised Lebanon and Turkey as examples of countries where Christians and Muslims live together peacefully. He said Europe and North America could learn from them and try to respect people from different backgrounds.
Leo’s comments come after Trump suggested banning immigration from some countries. His words show a clear difference between using caution and using force.
He also spoke about Ukraine. He said Europe should be part of the peace talks. The United States first planned without Europe, but Europe’s input changed the plan.
Leo shared his own thoughts, too. He said he had thought about retiring before becoming pope. “I took a deep breath and said, ‘Lord, you lead the way,’” he said.
He hopes to visit Algeria soon. He wants to follow Saint Augustine’s example and encourage friendship between Christians and Muslims.
Pope Leo became the first American pope on May 8, 2025. He is calm and formal, different from his predecessor, but his words are strong. Many are watching how he will handle big challenges for the church.
Even on the plane, he spoke with journalists. He wished them a happy Thanksgiving, talked about Wordle, and shared pumpkin pies. He said a book, The Practice of the Presence of God, taught him to let God guide his actions, even during hard times in Peru.
Featured image via YouTube screengrab
