Pope Leo decries European military spending as “betrayal” of diplomacy

Thursday 14 May 2026 - 10:03

Pope Leo XIV criticized the steady increase in European military spending, describing it as a move that undermines diplomacy and deepens global insecurity.

During a public address at a university visit in Rome, in Rome, the pontiff warned that growing investment in weapons and defence systems risks diverting resources away from essential sectors such as education and healthcare. He argued that such trends should not be presented simply as “defence,” but rather as rearmament that can fuel tensions between nations.

Pope Leo XIV stated that the world is increasingly affected by conflict and that continued military expansion benefits only a limited group of actors while weakening trust in diplomatic solutions. He also expressed concern about the potential use of artificial intelligence in warfare, warning that new technologies could intensify the destructive capacity of modern conflicts.

His remarks come at a time when European defence budgets have risen significantly, partly due to the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war and increased pressure on NATO member states to expand military capabilities. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, military expenditure in Europe has increased sharply in recent years.

The comments also reflect broader international debates about security policy, especially amid calls from Donald Trump for allies to increase defence spending. The Pope’s statement emphasizes diplomacy, social investment, and international cooperation as alternatives to arms expansion.