Pope Leo XIV has appealed for calm, justice, and respect for human dignity in Venezuela following the arrest of Nicolás Maduro by United States forces and his transfer to New York for trial.
Speaking during the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, the Pope emphasized that the well-being of the Venezuelan people must take precedence over all political interests. He urged an end to violence and encouraged efforts toward justice and peace that uphold Venezuela’s sovereignty, the rule of law, and the constitutional rights of every citizen.
“The good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail,” the Pope said, stressing the need to respect human and civil rights, protect the poorest who are suffering from economic hardship, and work collectively toward a future marked by stability, cooperation, and harmony.
Pope Leo invited the faithful worldwide to pray for Venezuela, assuring the nation of his spiritual closeness. He entrusted the country to the intercession of Our Lady of Coromoto, Patroness of Venezuela, as well as St. José Gregorio Hernández and St. Carmen Rendiles. He concluded by calling on everyone to trust in God, the source of peace, and to remain in solidarity with all peoples affected by conflict.
Meanwhile, the Venezuelan Bishops’ Conference also issued a message expressing solidarity with the nation during this turbulent period. The bishops called on citizens to seek serenity, wisdom, and strength from God, and they offered prayers for those injured and for the families of those who lost their lives during the recent events.
Rejecting all forms of violence, the bishops urged Venezuelans to persevere in prayer, foster unity, and ensure that all decisions taken at this critical moment serve the true good of the people and the peace of the nation.
Credit: Vatican News
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