Pope Leo XIV has urged that the welfare of the Venezuelan people must take priority over all other interests, following the removal of President Nicolas Maduro in a US-led operation. Speaking to the public after his Angelus prayer at St Peter’s Square on Sunday, the Pope highlighted the need for peace, justice and respect for human rights in the country.
“The welfare of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over all other considerations,” the Pope said, urging political leaders and citizens to focus on rebuilding the nation and protecting its most vulnerable citizens.
He further stressed that the situation in Venezuela should be used as an opportunity to overcome violence and embark on paths of justice and peace, while ensuring the sovereignty of the country is respected. “It is important to guarantee the rule of law enshrined in the Constitution, respecting the human and civil rights of each and every person,” he added.
The Pope also called for national unity, urging Venezuelans to work together to build “a peaceful future of collaboration, stability, and harmony.” He expressed particular concern for the poor, who continue to suffer because of the country’s ongoing economic crisis.
Venezuela has faced years of political instability and economic collapse under the leadership of Nicolas Maduro. Widespread shortages of food and medicine, hyperinflation, and mass emigration have left millions of Venezuelans struggling to survive.
Maduro’s government has been accused of corruption, human rights abuses, and suppressing political opposition. Internationally, the country has been the center of debate, with some nations recognizing opposition leaders while others continued to support Maduro’s government.
The situation took a dramatic turn when US special forces reportedly captured Maduro in Caracas, as part of a covert operation. This unprecedented intervention has escalated tensions, with US President Donald Trump announcing plans to administer Venezuela and make use of its oil reserves.
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, addressed the crowd in Rome during his weekly Angelus prayer, emphasizing that the people of Venezuela should be protected from political and military struggles. His message focused on the need to prioritize human welfare over political or economic interests.
“The situation should lead to overcoming violence and embarking on paths of justice and peace,” the Pope said. He highlighted that economic stability, protection of human rights, and rule of law must be central to any resolution.
Pope Leo also warned against neglecting the country’s most vulnerable citizens. “Special attention must be given to the poorest, who are suffering because of the difficult economic situation,” he said. This comes as millions of Venezuelans face food insecurity, lack of medical care, and unemployment, which have worsened since Maduro’s administration took full control of the country’s governance.
The capture of Maduro by US forces has drawn international attention and mixed reactions. While some Western countries welcomed the removal of the president as a step toward stabilizing Venezuela, others condemned it as a violation of the country’s sovereignty.
US President Donald Trump, in a statement following the operation, said the United States would manage Venezuela and its oil resources. This announcement has raised concerns among human rights organizations, regional governments, and international bodies, who fear that foreign administration could further complicate the humanitarian situation.
In this context, Pope Leo’s call for prioritizing the welfare of Venezuelans serves as a reminder that any political or military intervention must consider the human impact first. Experts note that economic and social stability are critical for the country’s recovery, and policies that ignore the needs of ordinary citizens could worsen the crisis.
The Pope also urged Venezuelans to work together to rebuild the nation and promote harmony. He emphasized that collaboration and unity among citizens and leaders are essential to creating a stable society.
“Venezuelans should collaborate to build a peaceful future,” he said. “Harmony and justice must guide the decisions of leaders, while ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the pursuit of political or economic goals.”
Pope Leo’s message underscores the Catholic Church’s continued engagement in global humanitarian issues. Historically, the Vatican has acted as a mediator in conflicts, promoted human rights, and called for the protection of vulnerable populations during political crises.
Despite the Pope’s appeal for peace and welfare, Venezuela faces significant challenges. The country’s political structure has been destabilized, and there are concerns about the treatment of Maduro’s supporters, potential civil unrest, and the management of the nation’s natural resources.
Meanwhile, ordinary Venezuelans continue to struggle with the daily hardships of living in a country where political instability and economic collapse have become the norm. International observers say that addressing the humanitarian crisis must go hand in hand with political solutions.