Pope Leo has criticised global leaders for spending billions of dollars on wars while essential needs such as education, healthcare and rebuilding remain underfunded.
Speaking during a visit to Cameroon, the Pope said the world is being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants” and accused some leaders of prioritising destruction over human welfare.
He said billions are being spent on “killing and devastation” while the resources needed for healing societies are not being provided. He warned that it takes only a moment to destroy, but often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild.
During his visit to Bamenda in north-west Cameroon, an area affected by long-running separatist violence, the Pope also condemned what he described as an “endless cycle of destabilisation and death.” Thousands have been killed and many more displaced due to the ongoing conflict in the region since 2017.
He said those who benefit from natural resources often invest profits into weapons, which continues violence and instability.
The Pope urged people to accept peace and unity, saying peace is not something to be created but something to be embraced by recognising others as brothers and sisters.
The remarks come amid growing tension between Pope Leo and US President Donald Trump over global conflicts and foreign policy. Trump recently criticised the Pope on social media, calling him weak on crime and foreign policy.
The dispute followed the Pope’s earlier concerns about escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
Despite criticism, Pope Leo said he has no fear of political pressure and will continue speaking out against war.
His Africa tour includes several countries and highlights the importance of the continent in the global Catholic community.
