US Catholic Cardinals Warn Trump on Greenland Threats
Three prominent U.S. Catholic cardinals issued a strong admonition to the Trump administration regarding its foreign policy. They expressed concern over military actions in Venezuela, threats to acquire Greenland, and significant cuts to foreign aid. The cardinals emphasized the potential for suffering and instability these decisions could create, instead of fostering peace.
Cardinals Urge Ethical Foreign Policy
Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago, Robert McElroy of Washington, and Joseph Tobin of Newark voiced their concerns in a formal statement. They criticized the current state of U.S. foreign policy, describing it as mired in “polarization, partisanship, and narrow economic and social interests.”
Insights from a Papal Address
The cardinals referenced a significant address by Pope Leo XIV, delivered on January 9 to ambassadors at the Holy See. This speech marked the pope’s strongest criticism of U.S. foreign policy, condemning the use of military force to assert dominance and calling for a restored commitment to peace.
Key Issues Highlighted
- Venezuela: The cardinals condemned U.S. military actions aimed at removing Nicolás Maduro from power.
- Greenland: They criticized the Trump administration’s threats to acquire Greenland, emphasizing the need to respect national sovereignty.
- Foreign Aid Cuts: The cardinals opposed significant reductions in assistance programs that serve vulnerable populations globally.
A Call for a Moral Compass
The cardinals stressed that military force should only be used as a last resort in extreme situations. They argued for a foreign policy rooted in the promotion of human dignity and religious liberty. “Our country’s moral role in confronting evil is under examination,” they stated.
Cardinal Tobin articulated the need for the U.S. to evaluate its prosperity. He noted, “It can’t be that my prosperity is predicated on inhuman treatment of others.” This reflects a broader vision of prioritizing the common good.
Inspiration from Fellow Cardinals
During a recent meeting in the Vatican, the cardinals were influenced by feedback from their counterparts, who expressed alarm over U.S. actions in Venezuela and elsewhere. They found influence in Pope Leo’s address, which reinforced their desire to advocate for ethical foreign policy.
These leaders clarified that their efforts are not about criticizing the current administration but rather a plea to restore the U.S.’s moral authority on the global stage. They seek a foreign policy that aligns with fundamental values like compassion and support for the needy.
Conclusion
The challenges posed by military action, threats of land acquisition, and cuts to vital aid programs must be addressed with a strong moral framework. The cardinal’s statement highlights the importance of engaging all people in the dialogue about human dignity and ethical governance.
