Pope Leo XIV speaks from a window of the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter’s Square during the Sunday Angelus on Aug. 24, 2025. | Credit: Vatican Media
Jan 3, 2026 / 07:05 am (CNA).
After U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Saturday, Pope Leo expressed deep concern over the situation. Global reactions to the developments are split.
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Pope speaks: Pope Leo XIV urged prayer and respect for human rights in Venezuela at Sunday Angelus, saying "the good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over every other consideration."
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Global reactions split: European leaders stressed international law while China expressed "deep shock" and Russia condemns "aggression." Venezuelan bishops called for prayer as Maduro awaits Monday arraignment in New York.
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U.N. convenes Monday: Security Council will meet at 10 a.m. after Colombia requested emergency session, backed by Russia and China. U.N. chief calls U.S. operation "a dangerous precedent."
