By Micah Jonah
January 9, 2026
Pope Leo XIV has strongly criticized the growing reliance on military force in global affairs, warning that the world is witnessing a dangerous return to war as a tool of diplomacy.
Speaking on Friday during his first annual address to diplomats accredited to the Vatican, the pontiff said international dialogue is increasingly being replaced by force, describing the trend as deeply troubling. He told representatives from about 184 countries that the weakness of international institutions in the face of ongoing conflicts was a major cause for concern.
“War is back in vogue and a zeal for war is spreading,” Pope Leo said, urging governments to recommit to diplomacy, based on dialogue, consensus and respect for human dignity.
The Pope, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, also addressed developments in Venezuela, calling on world leaders to respect the will of the Venezuelan people and to safeguard their human, civil rights. His remarks followed recent international tensions involving the South American country.
In a notably firm tone, Pope Leo criticized restrictions on freedom of expression in parts of the West, warning that it is “rapidly shrinking.” He also spoke against what he described as new forms of ideological exclusion, saying an overly politicized language of inclusion risks marginalizing those who do not conform.
The pontiff further condemned abortion, euthanasia and surrogate births, and highlighted what he called subtle forms of religious discrimination against Christians in Europe and the Americas.
The address marked a sharper, more outspoken stance compared to the earlier months of his papacy, signalling a willingness to confront global political, moral challenges more directly.
