Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned war and the exploitation of the earth’s resources, describing those responsible as “thieves” depriving humanity of a peaceful and sustainable future.
The remarks were made during his weekly Angelus address on Sunday, April 26, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, one of the worst nuclear accidents in history.
Reflecting on the 1986 reactor explosion, the pontiff said the tragedy remains a lasting reminder of the dangers associated with powerful technologies when misused. He warned that the legacy of Chernobyl continues to weigh heavily on the conscience of humanity and should guide present-day decisions, particularly in times of geopolitical tension.
“I hope that at all decision-making levels, wisdom and responsibility always prevail, so that atomic power can always be used to support life and peace,” he said.
The Pope also referenced ongoing global conflicts, including the situation in Ukraine, cautioning that modern warfare combined with nuclear capabilities poses significant risks to humanity and the environment.
Expanding on a Gospel metaphor about a sheep thief, the pontiff broadened his critique beyond armed conflict. He identified consumerism, environmental degradation, and entrenched social prejudices as additional forces undermining global stability.
According to him, these factors collectively “plunder” the world by eroding the foundations of peace, sustainability, and shared human progress.
He warned that lifestyles driven by excessive consumption and disregard for ecological balance contribute to long-term harm, urging individuals and leaders alike to adopt more responsible and ethical approaches to development.
The address also highlighted the moral responsibility of global leaders to prioritise peace and environmental protection in policymaking. The Pope stressed that decisions taken today will shape the future of generations to come, particularly in relation to climate change, conflict, and technological advancement.
Observers note that the pontiff has increasingly taken a vocal stance on global issues, particularly those related to war, governance, and environmental stewardship. His comments come amid growing international concern over the intersection of armed conflict and critical infrastructure, including nuclear facilities.
The anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster served as a central theme in the address, with the Pope describing it as a “permanent mark” on human history that must not be forgotten. He urged the international community to learn from past mistakes and ensure that similar tragedies are avoided.
While his remarks were primarily focused on moral and humanitarian concerns, they also carry broader implications for global policy discussions, particularly in areas such as energy use, environmental protection, and conflict resolution.
The Pope’s recent statements have drawn varied reactions from political leaders and commentators, reflecting ongoing debates about the role of religious leadership in addressing contemporary global challenges.
As the world marks four decades since the Chernobyl disaster, the pontiff’s message underscores the continued relevance of its lessons, calling for greater responsibility, restraint, and commitment to peace in an increasingly complex and uncertain global landscape.
