U.S. Catholic Cardinals Urge Trump to Prioritize Morality in Foreign Policy

Three prominent U.S. Catholic cardinals have called upon the Trump administration to center its foreign policy around a moral framework. They expressed concern over recent U.S. military actions in Venezuela, controversial plans regarding Greenland, and cuts to foreign aid, asserting that these actions may lead to widespread suffering rather than peace.

Cardinals Issue Urgent Call for Morality in Foreign Policy

The statement was jointly released by Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago, Robert McElroy of Washington, and Joseph Tobin of Newark, New Jersey. They stressed that without moral clarity, the ongoing discussions about U.S. foreign policy are mired in “polarization, partisanship, and narrow economic and social interests.”

Concerns About Current Actions

Cardinal McElroy remarked that both the U.S. andglobal communities are currently “adrift morally” in terms of foreign policy. He emphasized that the U.S. holds significant power to influence global peace positively.

This statement marks the second time in recent months that U.S. Catholic leaders have voiced their discontent with the administration’s approach. In November, the entire U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops criticized the administration for its mass deportation policies and the negative portrayal of migrants.

Papal Speech as a Catalyst

The cardinals drew inspiration from a major foreign policy address delivered by Pope Leo XIV on January 9 to ambassadors at the Vatican. In his speech, the Pope criticized nations for using force, which undermines peace and the post-World War II international order. While he did not name specific countries, the address coincided with U.S. military operations in Venezuela and threats regarding Greenland, as well as ongoing conflicts like the war in Ukraine.

• Venezuela: U.S. military operations aimed at displacing Nicolás Maduro.
• Greenland: U.S. administration’s interest in acquiring the resource-rich territory.
• Ukraine: Russia’s ongoing war and its implications on global stability.

Call for Ethical Guidelines

The cardinals asserted that current U.S. military actions raise critical questions about the use of force. They urged the necessity for military action to be viewed as a last resort and not a standard method of foreign policy. They stated the importance of a foreign policy that actively promotes human dignity and religious freedom worldwide.

Cardinal Tobin emphasized the notion of a moral compass, stating that individual prosperity should not rely on the inhumane treatment of others. The focus should be on the common good, he added.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Steps

In interviews following their statement, Cupich and McElroy noted that their call for a moral direction was inspired by discussions with fellow cardinals during a meeting in early January. They highlighted concerns about U.S. military engagement and foreign aid reductions. The cardinals used the Pope’s speech to articulate their position and emphasize the need for a shift in U.S. foreign policy.

Despite the statement’s critical tone, the cardinals clarified that their intention was not to attack the Trump administration. Rather, they sought to encourage a return to a moral framework that upholds human dignity and collective well-being. They asserted that all individuals have a role in advocating for basic human decency.

Conclusion

The cardinals’ statement represents a significant call for the U.S. to rethink its global role and the ethical implications of its foreign policy. By prioritizing morality alongside national interests, they hope to pave the way for a more humane approach to international relations.