Pope Leo XIV on Sunday said those who wage wars and exploit the earth’s resources are like thieves stealing humanity’s chance for a peaceful and secure future, while also warning about the dangers of nuclear power on the 40th anniversary of the Chornobyl disaster.
Speaking after the Angelus prayer at the Vatican, the Pope said the 1986 Chornobyl nuclear accident remains a lasting reminder of the risks linked to powerful technologies and the need for responsible decision-making.
“It remains a warning over the use of ever more powerful technologies,” the Pope said.
He added, “I hope that at all decision-making levels, wisdom and responsibility always prevail, so that atomic power can always be used to support life and peace.”
Ukraine marked the 40th anniversary of the world’s worst nuclear disaster on Sunday amid concerns that Russia’s ongoing war could create similar nuclear risks, particularly around the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.
Reflecting on the Gospel of the day, which included the image of a sheep thief, Pope Leo said theft can take many forms, including consumerism, prejudice, and harmful ideologies.
“And let’s not forget also those thieves who, by plundering the earth’s resources, by fighting bloody wars or feeding evil in whichever form, are simply taking away from all of us the chance of a future of peace and serenity,” he added.
Pope Leo, the first U.S. pontiff, has recently drawn criticism from President Donald Trump after speaking more openly against war and authoritarian rule.
