Loading...
Loading...
Click here if you don’t see subscription options
Opposition supporters in Venezuela hold a placard calling for peace as they take part in a rally against President Nicolas Maduro's government in Caracas April 10.

Pope Francis has written to the leaders of government and the opposition in Venezuela, urging a peaceful, negotiated solution to the ongoing political crisis. The pope’s message was read at the start of a much-anticipated meeting between President Nicolás Maduro and key members of the opposition on April 10. Pope Francis wrote that he was aware of the “restlessness and pain felt by so many people,” but noted his deep conviction that violence can never bring peace, only more violence. The dialogue was the first major effort at reconciliation since protests broke out in Venezuelan cities in early February. Key leaders of the opposition agreed to talk after receiving assurances that the government was willing to discuss amnesty for jailed government opponents and the creation of an independent truth commission. In his letter, Pope Francis called on those participating in the talks to have the courage to look beyond their differences for the good of the Venezuelan people and their own children’s future.

Comments are automatically closed two weeks after an article's initial publication. See our comments policy for more.

The latest from america

A Reflection for the Memorial of St. Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, by J.D. Long García
J.D. Long GarcíaApril 30, 2025
A Homily for the Third Sunday of Easter, by Terrance Klein
Terrance KleinApril 30, 2025
In a pre-conclave meeting, an Italian cardinal, and backer of Cardinal Parolin as next pope, attacked Pope Francis for opening positions of responsibility in the church to men and women not in holy orders.
Gerard O’ConnellApril 30, 2025
Michael B. Jordan, left, in “Sinners” (Warner Brothers)
As the film’s title promises, there is plenty of sin on display, even before the vampires arrive.
John DoughertyApril 30, 2025