Pope Leo condemns increased European military spending, calling it a “betrayal” of diplomacy and warning that the policy undermines education and health investment. Speaking to university students in Rome, he urges people not to describe rearmament as “defence” when it is linked to rising tensions and insecurity. The pope says the world is harmed by wars and argues that such spending misdirects resources while failing to advance the common good.
Multiple reports note that European military spending rises sharply year-on-year, reaching the highest increase since the end of the Cold War. They also connect the trend to external pressure, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has pushed European countries to increase their defense outlays.
The pope’s remarks come amid broader criticism he has made in recent weeks that has drawn attention from Trump after Leo criticized aspects of the Iran war. In his comments, he frames the issue as one of diplomatic trust, arguing that rearmament enriches elites rather than addressing public needs.
