Pope Leo XIV issued a poignant condemnation on Sunday, April 26, describing those who wage war and exploit the earth’s resources as “thieves” who rob humanity of a peaceful and serene future.
The Pontiff’s remarks were delivered during his weekly Angelus address, coincide with the 40th anniversary of the Chornobyl nuclear disaster.
Referencing the anniversary of the 1986 reactor accident, the Pope warned that the tragedy serves as a permanent mark on the collective conscience of humankind.
He stressed that Chornobyl remains a stark warning regarding the use of increasingly powerful technologies, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the risks it poses to modern nuclear infrastructure.
“I hope that at all decision-making levels, wisdom and responsibility always prevail, so that atomic power can always be used to support life and peace,” the Pope stated, following his recent 10-day tour of four African nations.
Drawing from the day’s Gospel metaphor of a sheep thief, the Pope expanded the definition of those who “plunder” the world. He listed superficial lifestyles driven by consumerism, deep-seated prejudices, and violent conflicts as the primary forces taking away the world’s chance for stability.
Pope Leo, who is the first American to hold the papacy, has become increasingly outspoken against despotism and war. His recent rhetoric has notably drawn criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, marking a period of heightened tension between the Vatican and the White House over international policy and environmental stewardship.