Pope Leo XIV commented on the situation in Venezuela, calling for the guarantee of sovereignty and respect for universal and civil rights, as well as “to be enduring in prayer for peace and solidarity with peoples suffering because of wars.”
The pontiff said he is following with concern the situation in Venezuela.
He said the good of the Venezuelan people must prevail over all other considerations and motivate them to overcome violence and embark on the path of justice and peace, “guaranteeing the sovereignty of the country, ensuring the rule of law enshrined in the Constitution, respecting human and civil rights of each and all.”
“Dear ones, let us not lose faith in the God of peace: let us pray and stand in solidarity with the peoples suffering from wars,” ” the Pope told pilgrims in St Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
He also directed his opinion to those affected by the tragedy in the Swiss Alps on New Year’s Eve, where a fire in a bar claimed dozens of lives.
“I endeavour once again to witness my closeness with those who are experiencing pain because of the tragedy that occurred in Crans-Montana in Switzerland. I assure prayers for the young people who died, for the wounded and their families,” ” he said.
Maduro, captured along with his wife Celia Flores in a US operation in January, was taken to New York to face drug trafficking charges. Maduro and Flores are currently in custody.
A federal judge in New York released a new indictment charging Maduro, his wife and four others with four counts, including “narco-terrorism” and conspiracy to import cocaine.
Hours after the operation, Trump said the US would govern Venezuela until there is an orderly transfer of power. He did not specify exactly how that would take place.