Pope Francis, concerned about Venezuela: asks to avoid violence

VATICAN CITY.- Pope Francis spoke out concerned about the situation in Venezuela and called on all parties to seek the truth, behave with restraint and avoid violence, in an appeal during the prayer of the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square.

“I express my concern for Venezuelawhich is experiencing a critical situation,” the Pope said.

The Pope calls for the search for truth in Venezuela

“I make a strong Call to all parties to seek the truth and behave with moderation to avoid any type of violence.”

He also urged Resolving conflicts through dialoguefor the good of the population and not for the interests of each party.

The Supreme Pontiff also entrusted the country toat the intercession of Our Lady of Coromotohighly venerated in Venezuela, and the prayer of Blessed José Gregorio Hernández that unites all Venezuelans.

Let us entrust Venezuela to the intercession of Our Lady of Coromoto. I make a heartfelt appeal to all parties to seek the truth, resolve disputes through dialogue and care for the true good of the people and not for partisan interests.

— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) August 4, 2024

Conflict in Venezuela after the elections

The Venezuelan opposition does not recognize the official result of last Sunday’s elections, after which the National Electoral Council (CNE) ratified Nicolás Maduro as re-elected president.

Protests have been held following the publication of the results, resulting in 13 deaths and 1,200 arrests.

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