Pope Leo Denounces 'Tyrants' Over War Spending Amidst Africa Tour
Pope Criticises War Profiteers
Pope Leo, during a significant tour of Cameroon, has forcefully condemned global leaders, describing the world as being "ravaged by a handful of tyrants." The Pontiff's remarks targeted those who manipulate "the very name of God" for personal gain, particularly in regions afflicted by prolonged conflict.
His comments come shortly after a notable disagreement with US President Donald Trump, who had publicly criticised the Pope following his concerns regarding the US and Israeli military operations in Iran. Pope Leo had previously voiced apprehension over Trump's threat of "a whole civilisation will die" if Iran did not comply with US demands regarding the war and the Strait of Hormuz. Last year, Pope Leo, the first US-born Pope, also questioned the Trump administration's immigration policies.
Neglect of Essential Needs
In Cameroon, a region grappling with a nearly decade-long insurgency, Pope Leo lambasted leaders who "turn a blind eye to the fact that billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found." He emphasised the destructive nature of conflict, stating, "The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild."
Addressing crowds in the northwestern city of Bamenda, the Pope condemned the "endless cycle of destabilisation and death" in the "bloodstained" region. He highlighted the detrimental link between resource exploitation and conflict, asserting, "Those who rob your land of its resources generally invest much of the profit in weapons, thus perpetuating an endless cycle of destabilisation and death."
Pope Leo's extensive African tour encompasses 11 cities across four countries, reflecting the growing importance of Catholicism on the continent, which accounts for over a fifth of the world's Catholic population, approximately 288 million people as of 2024.
