"We must not delay our efforts to overcome violence, embark on a path of justice and peace, and ensure Venezuela's national sovereignty," Pope Leo XIV said today during a prayer service in Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican.

He stated that he is following all developments in Venezuela "with a soul full of anxiety," emphasizing that "the welfare of the beloved Venezuelan people must be prioritized above all else."

Pope Leo XIV speaks at the Vatican on 1/1. Photo: AFP

Pope Leo XIV's comments came one day after the US military launched a raid on Venezuela, arresting President Nicolas Maduro and his wife in Caracas. In 12/2025, Pope Leo XIV had urged President Trump not to use force to overthrow President Maduro.

In the early hours of 3/1, the US military initiated an operation named "Absolute Resolve." Approximately 150 aircraft, deployed from 20 bases, conducted airstrikes on multiple targets in Venezuela. This action facilitated helicopter squadrons to enter the capital Caracas, carrying US special forces and law enforcement personnel to execute the arrest warrant for Mr. Maduro.

President Donald Trump subsequently declared that the US would "run" Venezuela and exploit the country's oil reserves.

The Venezuelan government has not yet released figures for casualties or material damage following the raid. However, an unnamed senior Venezuelan official revealed to the New York Times that at least 40 people, including military personnel and civilians, died during the US operation.

The airstrike hit a three-story apartment building in Catia La Mar, a low-income residential area along the western coast of Caracas airport. One person was killed and another seriously injured. Venezuelan government investigators arrived at the affected area on the afternoon of 3/1 to take witness statements and collect shrapnel.

Vu Hoang (According to AFP, Reuters)