Vatican News / Karol Darmoros
Armaments solve nothing
During the flight from France to Rome, Pope Leo XIV answered a question from Manuela Tullia of the ANSA agency regarding Russia’s war against Ukraine, the possibility of negotiations, and his earlier words about the “illusion of rearmament.”
The Pope recalled that the Church’s social teaching opposes violence, hatred, and the logic of armaments. He also drew attention to the resurgence of nuclear weapons threats in international debate.
“Armaments and investments in this huge military industry, which has existed for many decades and continues to drive military spending, are ongoing. Certain entities are getting very rich thanks to an industry that promotes war,” Leo XIV said.
As he added, these funds could be used differently. “Meanwhile, with these billions of dollars, problems such as world hunger, housing, unemployment, and others could be solved,” the Pope assessed.
A different path is needed
The Holy Father noted that increasing spending on weapons does not remove the sources of conflicts, but can lead to a further increase in tension.
“It is not a question of whether someone is a politician or not, but a voice is needed that tries to promote the values of human dignity, the importance of life, and the possibility of allocating more resources to healthcare and education, and less to weapons,” he said.
Leo XIV also warned against attempts to impose one’s will by force. He pointed to dialogue and negotiations as an alternative.
At the same table
Referring directly to Russia and Ukraine, the Pope emphasized that the Church will constantly appeal for talks.
“I believe that the Church has a duty to promote these values by constantly inviting leaders, such as the leaders of Russia and Ukraine, as well as other countries, to come, sit at the same table, engage in dialogue, and seek ways to solve problems without continuing these wars that no longer make sense,” Leo XIV said.
At the same time, he admitted that the Church cannot force anyone to do anything. “Sometimes it may seem futile, but we will continue to speak, continue to invite, and continue to proclaim the Gospel,” the Pope concluded.
