Pope Urges Dialogue, Not Force, in Venezuela Crisis

Pope Leo has called for peaceful dialogue and economic pressure to resolve the political crisis in Venezuela. He made the statement after a reported phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro failed to ease tensions. The pontiff specifically advised against military intervention. He emphasized that violence only deepens human suffering and division. Pope Leo, who was born in Chicago, leads a global Catholic Church with significant influence in Latin America. His appeal for restraint comes as international concern grows over Venezuela's economic collapse and political deadlock. The Vatican did not comment on the details of the failed call between the two presidents. However, the Pope's message reinforces the Church's consistent diplomatic role in advocating for peaceful solutions.