Pope advises Trump against using force to remove Maduro

The Pope has appealed to US President Donald Trump to avoid removing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro through force. Pope Leo XIV, the first North American pontiff, recommended seeking an agreement with Mr. Maduro to resign voluntarily rather than attempting a military takeover.

President Trump has been exploring ways to remove Mr. Maduro, who faces accusations of facilitating drug trafficking into the United States. Over a dozen warships, including the USS Gerald R. Fordthe worlds largest aircraft carrierhave gathered near the Caribbean, alongside roughly 15,000 troops, raising concerns about a potential strike.

Speaking to reporters aboard the papal plane returning from Lebanon on Tuesday, the Pope said the Vatican embassy in Caracas was working to ease tensions. He noted, The messages from the United States shift frequently. There seems to have been a phone call between the two leaders, yet there remains a risk of a military operation in Venezuelan territory.

He emphasized the importance of dialogue, suggesting that economic or diplomatic pressure could be more effective ways to encourage change rather than direct military action.

Relations between the US and Venezuela have worsened in recent months. Under Trumps administration, 22 strikes have been carried out on 21 vessels allegedly transporting illegal drugs. Since September, 81 individuals described as narcoterrorists have been killed in these operations. The US has also restricted Venezuelan airspace and considered expanding attacks on land targets.

While options for military intervention remain under review, including potential strikes against Mr. Maduro or seizing oil fields, no final decision has been made. President Trump reportedly seeks to avoid actions that could endanger US troops or result in failure. A prior phone conversation reportedly saw Mr. Trump requesting Mr. Maduros immediate departure in exchange for safety guarantees for him and his family.

Reports indicate Mr. Maduro had previously offered to step down after two years, which was rejected by the US administration. Pressure is also mounting on Defense Secretary Mr. Hegseth, whose directive during a September strike on a drug-trafficking vessel is being reviewed by Congress.

After two survivors clung to wreckage following a missile strike off Trinidad, a second strike was ordered. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that actions against designated narcoterrorist groups are consistent with the laws of war, while Mr. Hegseth expressed full support for the commanding admiral involved in the operation.

Author: Sophia Brooks