Pope Leo XIV asked this Sunday (1st) that the United States and Cuba engage in “sincere and effective” dialogue to avoid violence and alleviate the suffering of the Cuban people, given the growing tension between the two countries. The demonstration was made after the Sunday Angelus prayer in the Vatican, amid a delicate diplomatic scenario.
The pontiff stated that he received “with great concern” news about the increase in tensions between Havana and Washington and joined the Cuban bishops’ call for responsible leaders to promote negotiations that could prevent new conflicts and social difficulties for Cubans. He also entrusted the protection of Cubans to the Virgin of Charity of Copper, patron saint of Cuba.
The statements come amid recent moves by the United States administration, led by President Donald Trump, which announced last week its intention to impose tariffs on imports from countries that supply oil to Cuba — a measure seen as a way of intensifying economic pressure on the island. Trump justified such actions by stating that they aim to protect US national security interests in the face of the Cuban government’s “evil” policies.
In response to the tariff threats, the Cuban government led by Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez declared a “state of international emergency”, arguing that the measure constitutes an unusual and extraordinary threat to the country’s stability.
Pope Leo’s appeal aligns with Cuban religious leaders, who recently warned of the risk of social chaos and violence if the crisis deepens, reinforcing the need for resolutions through dialogue and diplomacy, and not unilateral actions or confrontations.
