Cardinals Encourage Trump to Withdraw Greenland and Venezuela Threats

In a significant address, three U.S. cardinals have publicly urged the Trump administration to reconsider its approach to foreign policy. They stress the importance of prioritizing global peace over aggressive tactics that could lead to conflict. Their statement comes amid rising tensions regarding military actions in regions like Greenland and Venezuela.

Call for Moral Foreign Policy

Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, and Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark issued a joint statement emphasizing a moral foundation for U.S. international relations. They referenced a recent message from Pope Leo XIV, highlighting a growing “zeal for warmaking” contrary to promoting justice and human dignity.

• The cardinals denounce war for national interests.
• Military action should only be a last resort.
• The focus must return to human rights and dignity.

Influence of Pope Leo XIV

The cardinals align their message with Pope Leo XIV’s recent remarks on January 6. He expressed concerns about the erosion of multilateral institutions and the rising trend of diplomacy driven by military force rather than dialogue.

The Pope noted the dangers of viewing conflict as a means of asserting authority, stating, “War is back in vogue, and a zeal for war is spreading.” He underscored the crucial need for peace as an inherent good rather than a condition imposed by weaponry.

Divided Perspectives on U.S. Foreign Policy

The cardinals pointed out the opaque nature of America’s moral role in light of recent conflicts in Venezuela and Ukraine. They emphasized that self-determination for nations is increasingly threatened, with national interests overshadowing the common good.

Recent actions by the Trump administration regarding Greenland further solidify this divide. The proposal to annex the territory has drawn criticism both domestically and internationally, igniting tensions with European allies and causing concern among Greenland’s population, 85% of whom oppose U.S. governance.

Concerns About Military Intervention

Trump’s push for control over Greenland has raised alarms across the globe. Many experts argue that such moves are unnecessary and violate international norms established post-World War II. Critics assert that existing agreements allow U.S. involvement in Greenland without overt military action.

• Greenland’s Prime Minister has declared, “Greenland is not for sale.”
• International troops have been dispatched in response to U.S. threats.
• Polls indicate that the majority of Americans disapprove of the takeover initiative.

The Path Forward

The joint appeal from the cardinals advocates for a shift in American foreign policy. They propose a vision grounded in human dignity, support for religious liberty, and compassionate international assistance.

As leaders in the U.S. church, the cardinals believe it is vital to address the pressing moral questions surrounding America’s actions on the world stage. They call for a return to values that foster genuine peace and cooperation among nations.

In this critical time, their message compels a re-examination of America’s role and responsibilities in global affairs, urging for diplomacy over militarism, and reminding leaders of the fundamental right to life and dignity inherent in all humanity.