The foreign policy stance of the Trump administration has been called into question by three prominent U.S. Catholic cardinals. They are urging the government to adopt a moral compass, particularly concerning recent military actions and foreign aid cuts.
Cardinals Advocate for Morality in Foreign Policy
Cardinals Blase Cupich, Robert McElroy, and Joseph Tobin issued a joint statement addressing critical issues in U.S. foreign policy. They emphasized that actions such as military intervention in Venezuela and proposals regarding Greenland could lead to immense suffering.
McElroy remarked that the United States and the global community are currently “adrift morally” in matters of international relations. He stressed the substantial impact the U.S. could have on the world, should it align its actions with ethical standards.
Concerns Over Current Actions
- U.S. military operations aimed at removing Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela.
- Threats to acquire the resource-rich Greenland from Denmark.
- Significant cuts to foreign aid initiated by the Trump administration.
The cardinals believe these actions represent a dangerous trend. They highlighted that military force should only be a last resort and criticized the use of war for narrow national interests.
Pope Leo’s Influence
The release of the cardinals’ statement followed Pope Leo XIV’s major address to ambassadors on January 9, where he criticized the use of force in international relations. The Pope’s remarks provided a foundation for the cardinals’ concerns over the current debates in U.S. foreign policy.
Call for a New Approach
In their statement, the cardinals outlined the need for a foreign policy that advances human dignity and supports religious liberty. They emphasized the importance of economic assistance in achieving these goals.
Tobin remarked, “It can’t be that my prosperity is predicated on inhuman treatment of others.” This sentiment reflects the cardinals’ desire for an ethical approach to foreign policy that benefits the common good rather than individual interests.
Engagement with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops was consulted prior to the statement’s release. Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the conference, expressed support for the cardinals’ emphasis on Pope Leo’s teachings.
Cardinal Cupich mentioned that the statement was inspired by discussions with other cardinals who expressed concerns about recent U.S. actions during a meeting at the Vatican. Their intent was not to criticize the administration but to encourage a recommitment to moral leadership on the global stage.
Conclusion
The cardinals’ call for a morally guided foreign policy reflects a growing sentiment within the Catholic Church concerning the importance of human dignity and ethical interactions on the international front. Through their advocacy, they hope to influence U.S. policy for the greater good.
