Pope Leo XIV portrait (2).webp
The Digest:

Pope Leo XIV has said the world is being "ravaged by a handful of tyrants" who prioritise war spending over human development. Speaking at Saint Joseph Cathedral in Bamenda, Cameroon, during his 11-day Africa tour, he warned: "Woe to those who manipulate religion for military, economic, and political gain." He added that while billions are spent on warfare, education, healthcare, and reconstruction remain underfunded. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops defended his remarks after criticism from Vice-President JD Vance.

Key Points:
  • Vance had questioned the pope's stance, citing Catholic "just war" doctrine.
  • The bishops said Vance misrepresented the pope's remarks.
  • Pope Leo earlier said he has "no fear" of Trump's administration.
  • Trump had called the pontiff "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy."
  • The pope is on an 11-day pastoral visit to Africa.
Sources: The Cable