On way home from Lebanon, Pope Leo warns against U.S. incursion into Venezuela

Colombia's President Gustavo Petro has issued a warning to U.S. President Donald Trump, cautioning against military threats aimed at Colombia in response to drug trafficking. This statement follows Trump's suggestion that military strikes could target countries producing narcotics, specifically mentioning Colombia and Venezuela during a cabinet meeting.

Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff, has embarked on his inaugural foreign trip to Turkey and Lebanon, marking a significant moment in his papacy as he seeks to strengthen interfaith relations and deliver messages of peace. His visit began with a focus on fostering dialogue between Orthodox Christians and Muslims, reflecting the Catholic Church's commitment to unity.

Pope Leo has emphasized the critical role of European nations, particularly Italy, in mediating peace talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, amidst stalled negotiations between Russia and the US. The pontiff's remarks come as tensions escalate, with Russian President Vladimir Putin accusing Europe of obstructing peace efforts.

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended two military strikes on an alleged drug boat in the Caribbean, which resulted in the deaths of two individuals. Hegseth attributed the oversight of survivors to the 'fog of war,' raising concerns about potential violations of international law.

Ana María Arévalo Gosen's portraits from the Poli-Valencia detention centre in Venezuela depict the frustration of women awaiting news from their lawyers and families. The facility, previously an investigation office, was repurposed into a cell, and upon her return a year later, it was adorned with personal touches reflecting the women's identities amidst their confinement.

Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass in Beirut, addressing a crowd of 150,000 and urging the people of the Middle East to overcome historical divisions and pursue peace. This event marked the conclusion of his first international trip as pontiff, which included significant visits to Turkey and Lebanon.

Pope Leo has urged the Trump administration to refrain from using military threats against Venezuela, advocating instead for peaceful means to instigate change in the country. This call comes amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, with the Trump administration considering various options, including military action, to address the situation.

A group of Democratic senators announced plans to use a congressional vote to prevent President Trump from initiating military action against Venezuela, citing concerns that such an action would be a significant error. They emphasized the need to rein in the administration's aggressive stance towards the South American nation.