Pope Leo has sharply criticised global leaders for spending billions on wars, warning that the world is “being ravaged by a handful of tyrants,” during a visit to Cameroon.
Speaking in a region affected by a prolonged insurgency, the pontiff condemned those who exploit religion for personal or political gain, accusing some leaders of manipulating “the very name of God.”
His remarks come amid growing tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump, following a recent public exchange over the ongoing U.S.-Israeli military operations involving Iran. While Trump criticised the Pope on social media, Leo said he would avoid direct confrontation but continue advocating for peace.
Addressing the issue of global priorities, the Pope said, “Billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.”
He warned that the pursuit of war fuels long-term instability, adding, “It takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild.”
During his visit to Bamenda in Cameroon’s conflict-affected northwest, the Pope highlighted the human cost of violence, describing the region as “bloodstained” after years of unrest that have left thousands dead and many displaced.
He also pointed to the role of resource exploitation in perpetuating conflict, stating that profits are often reinvested in weapons, creating “an endless cycle of destabilisation and death.”
Calling for unity and reconciliation, the Pope said peace must be embraced through mutual understanding. “Peace is not something we must invent; it is something we must embrace by accepting our neighbour as a brother and sister,” he said.
The Pope has consistently voiced opposition to war, recently describing the Iran-related conflict as “atrocious” and rejecting any attempt to justify violence in religious terms.
Despite criticism from political leaders, Pope Leo reiterated that he would continue to speak out against war and promote peace throughout his ongoing Africa tour, which includes visits to multiple countries and highlights the growing importance of Catholicism in the region.