Pope Leo Condemns Europe’s Rising Military Spending, Calls It ‘Betrayal of Diplomacy’

Pope Leo XIV has strongly criticized the sharp increase in European military spending, describing the growing wave of rearmament across the continent as a “betrayal of diplomacy.”

Speaking during an address to students at a university event in Rome on Thursday, the pontiff warned that the global rush toward military expansion risks deepening international instability instead of promoting peace.

Pope Leo argued that governments should not frame increased defence budgets as necessary security measures while social sectors such as healthcare and education continue to face financial strain. According to reports, European military expenditure recorded its largest annual rise since the end of the Cold War, driven largely by ongoing geopolitical tensions and pressure within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization alliance.

The Pope also expressed concern over the growing use of artificial intelligence in warfare, warning that emerging military technologies could create what he described as a dangerous “spiral of annihilation.” He urged world leaders to prioritize dialogue, diplomacy, and humanitarian investment over weapons expansion.

His remarks come amid heightened global tensions linked to conflicts involving Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Gaza, and Lebanon. The Vatican leader has repeatedly positioned himself as an advocate for peace negotiations and diplomatic engagement in international disputes.

The comments have already sparked debate internationally, with critics arguing that increased defence spending is necessary for Europe’s security amid growing global threats, while supporters of the Pope say his statement reflects the moral cost of escalating militarization.