Pope Leo Visits Cameroon, Berates War Mongers

Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong condemnation of global actors fuelling conflicts, warning that the world was being ravaged by “tyrants” while calling for peace, unity, and responsible leadership.

In a series of posts on his official X account during his visit to Cameroon, the pontiff criticised those who exploit religion for political, economic, and military purposes.

“Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for their own military, economic, and political gain, dragging that which is sacred into darkness and filth,” he said.

The pope stressed that peace must be embraced through mutual acceptance and human solidarity.

“Peace is not something we must invent: it is something we must embrace by accepting our neighbour as a brother or sister. We do not choose our brothers and sisters: we must simply accept one another,” he stated.

“We are one family, inhabiting the same home: this wonderful planet that ancient cultures have cared for over millennia. We are all our brother’s and sister’s keeper. In God’s great family, no one is ever a stranger or forgotten, no matter how little they may be.”

Highlighting the importance of youth development, Pope Leo described young people as central to building lasting peace.

“Young people represent the hope of a country and the Church. Investing in education, training, and entrepreneurship for young people is a strategic choice for peace. It is also the only way to combat the scourges of drugs, prostitution, and apathy,” he added.

He further called on governments to prioritise peace in both domestic governance and international relations.
“Peace is everyone’s responsibility, beginning with civil authorities. To govern means to love one’s own country as well as neighboring countries. The commandment ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ is equally applicable to international relations,” he noted.

Calling for an end to violence, the pope urged global leaders to reject war and embrace justice-driven peace.

“Let us reject the logic of violence and war, and embrace peace founded on love and justice—an unarmed peace, not based on fear, threats or weapons. This peace is disarming, because it is capable of resolving conflicts, opening hearts, and generating trust, empathy, and hope.

“I strongly reiterate: The world thirsts for #Peace! Enough of war and all the pain it causes through death, destruction, and exile!”

During a speech in Bamenda, a conflict-affected city in Cameroon’s Anglophone region, the pope warned that “the world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants, yet it is held together by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters.”

His remarks come amid criticism from US President Donald Trump, who faulted the pope’s stance on the Iran conflict, describing him as “terrible for foreign policy.”

Responding, Pope Leo said his comments were not directed at any individual.

“The things I say are not meant as attacks on anyone,” he said, adding, “I have no fear of the Trump administration or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel.”

The pope arrived in Yaoundé on Wednesday as part of a four-country African tour and urged authorities to tackle corruption and address the ongoing crisis between government forces and Anglophone separatists.

His visit to Bamenda drew large crowds, with residents welcoming him while waving peace symbols.