Pope Addresses Venezuela Situation During Angelus
During the Angelus reading in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo voiced his concerns regarding the situation in Venezuela, particularly following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by U.S. forces.
Maduro, who has been described in harsh terms as a dictator and involved in narcotics trafficking, was extradited to New York to face various criminal charges after a dramatic operation by Delta Force.
“I am watching developments in Venezuela with deep concern,” the Pope stated. He emphasized that the interests of the Venezuelan people should come before everything else and urged a move away from violence towards a path of justice and peace, while striving to uphold the country’s sovereignty.
He called for constitutional adherence to the rule of law, respect for human rights, and collaboration toward a peaceful future, particularly focusing on the most impoverished citizens facing tough economic hardships.
The Pope continued with a request for prayers, particularly invoking the intercession of Our Lady of Coromoto and Saints José Gregorio Hernández and Carmen Rendiles.
While the Pope’s statements are relatively uncontroversial, it’s worth noting that Maduro’s rule has been characterized by severe human rights violations and connections to various global criminal networks, benefiting from his extended tenure. Countries like Russia, China, and Iran have reportedly profited during Maduro’s time in power, along with regional drug traffickers exporting from Venezuela.
President Trump has made it clear that the U.S. will respect Venezuela’s sovereignty but intends to enforce continued sanctions until democracy and the rule of law are reinstated.
It’s important to remember Venezuela’s transformation from a prosperous nation into its current state under communist leadership, which has devastated its economy. Trump aims to maintain pressure on Maduro’s regime until a legitimate government is established.
Both Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro have shown a lack of respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty, contrasting with Trump’s declared commitment to it. The former U.S. president understands that socialism and communism are key contributors to widespread poverty.
