Pope Leo urges sincere dialogue between US and Cuba after Trump tariff threat

Pope Leo called for "sincere and effective dialogue" to avoid violence after President Trump announced planned tariffs on imports from countries supplying Cuba with oil.

Pope Leo expressed deep concern about rising tensions between the United States and Cuba and urged "sincere and effective dialogue" to prevent violence and further hardship for the Cuban people. His comments followed President Donald Trump's announcement of planned tariffs on imports from countries that supply Cuba with oil. That announcement came after the ousting of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in early January, which affected Cuba's oil access. Cuban bishops had also called for dialogue, and Cuba's foreign minister described the US warning as an "international emergency." Key points: - Pope Leo said he had received reports "with great concern" and echoed Cuban bishops in urging those responsible to promote sincere and effective dialogue to avoid violence and further suffering for the Cuban people. - President Donald Trump announced planned tariffs on imports from countries supplying Cuba with oil and said the measure was intended to protect U.S. national security and foreign policy from the Cuban regime's actions. - Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez described the US tariff warning as an "international emergency." - The increased pressure follows the removal of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who had been a key Cuban ally. Summary: Pope Leo's public appeal highlights concern among religious leaders about the humanitarian and diplomatic implications of rising US-Cuba tensions. Undetermined at this time.