BAMENDA, Cameroon (AP) — Pope Leo XIV on Saturday delivered a forceful critique of war, political power and the misuse of religion, issuing some of the strongest language of his papacy during remarks in Cameroon that came days after a public dispute with Donald Trump.
Speaking at St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Bamenda, the pope warned that global conflicts are being driven by a small number of powerful leaders while ordinary people bear the consequences.
“The world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants — yet it is held together by a multitude of supportive brothers and sisters,” he said.
He criticized what he described as the destructive priorities of modern warfare, saying vast sums are spent on violence while basic human needs go unmet.
“Masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild,” the pope said. “Billions are spent on killing and devastation, while resources for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.”
The pope also condemned the use of religion to justify political or military agendas.
“Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God for military, economic and political gain,” he said.
He did not mention any country or leader by name.
The remarks followed a series of public exchanges earlier in the week. Trump had criticized the pope on social media, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy.” The president also posted, then later deleted, an AI-generated image depicting himself in a Christ-like role.
JD Vance, a political ally of Trump, had also urged the pope to avoid political commentary.
Asked about the criticism while traveling, Leo said he was not concerned about political backlash and would continue to speak openly about moral issues.
“I have no fear of the Trump administration — or speaking out loudly of the message of the Gospel,” he said.
Trump responded to the pope’s remarks later Saturday, telling reporters he has “a right to disagree,” and warning that global security risks remain high if Iran were to develop nuclear weapons.
The exchange highlights a growing divide between the Vatican and the White House over war, diplomacy and the role of religion in political life.
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