In a powerful and sombre address, Pope Leo XIV has issued a stark warning to global leaders, declaring that war is "back in vogue" and multilateral dialogue is crumbling. The Pontiff delivered this urgent message to diplomats at the Vatican on Friday, January 9, 2026.
A Diplomacy of Force Replaces Dialogue
The Pope expressed deep concern over the current state of international relations. He lamented that the foundational principle established after the Second World War, which forbids nations from using force to violate another's borders, has been "completely undermined." He observed that traditional diplomacy based on conversation is vanishing.
"Diplomacy based on dialogue is being replaced by a diplomacy based on force, by either individuals or groups of allies," Pope Leo stated. He added that peace is now being sought through weapons as a means to assert dominance, a trend he said gravely threatens the rule of law.
Specific Crises and a Plea for Venezuela
Pope Leo XIV pointed to specific global flashpoints, identifying rising tensions in the Caribbean and Pacific as "cause for serious concern." He focused particularly on the situation in Venezuela, where US forces recently seized the president.
His appeal came just hours after US President Donald Trump announced impending land operations against drug cartels, following maritime attacks. The Pope directly responded to Trump's suggestion that the US could control Venezuela and its vast oil reserves for years.
"I issue an appeal to respect the will of the Venezuelan people, and to safeguard the human and civil rights of all," the Pontiff urged. He stressed that protecting human dignity and the sanctity of life "always counts for more than any mere national interest."
The Weakness of Words and the Arms Race
The Pope also highlighted the "weakness of multilateralism" as a major problem. He compared its ideal purpose to a modern Roman Forum, a place for meeting and discussion. However, he noted it becomes impossible to talk "when words lose their connection to reality."
"Rediscovering the meaning of words is perhaps one of the primary challenges of our time," he remarked. Furthermore, Pope Leo warned against a dangerous return to an arms race, especially involving artificial intelligence in new weapons.
He condemned the destruction of hospitals, homes, and essential infrastructure as a serious violation of international humanitarian law. Recalling other conflicts, he reiterated support for a two-state solution in the Middle East and decried increased violence against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank.
Pope Leo XIV's message serves as a profound call for a return to principled international law and genuine dialogue, reminding states that their commitment to these ideals must "always prevail over the ambitions of belligerents."
