Pope Leo XIV stated that the future of humanity does not lie in military strategies or economic power, but in the ability of peoples to recognize each other as brothers. At the end of the Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square, the Pontiff was categorical in analyzing the global scenario of conflicts, assuring that the force of arms is an exhausted path that does not guarantee the survival of future generations. 'The future lies in respect and fraternity among peoples,' the Pope stated, in a call aimed directly at those responsible for global decisions. According to the Argentine News Agency, the Holy Father dedicated a central part of his address to the tragic situation in Nigeria, where recent terrorist attacks in the states of Benue and Kaduna have left a trail of deaths and mass kidnappings. With evident concern, Leo XIV expressed his closeness to the victims and urged rulers not to give up in the defense of their citizens: 'I hope that the competent authorities continue to work with determination to guarantee the security and protection of the life of every citizen.' In tune with this security appeal, he recalled that this Sunday is World Day Against Trafficking, emphasizing that 'peace begins with dignity' and denouncing that millions of women and children continue to be victims of modern slavery. The Pontiff's solidarity also extended to the communities of Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Italy, hit by storms that have caused major flooding and landslides. He made a special mention to the Andalusian town of Grazalema and the Sicilian city of Niscemi, where the number of evacuees already exceeds 1,500 people. Finally, Leo XIV held up as a beacon of hope the beatification of the Spanish priest Salvador Valera Parra, whom he defined as an example of austerity and dedication for the contemporary Church. 'Economic and military power strategies — as history teaches us — do not give a future to humanity.' 'May his example of a priest focused on the essentials be a stimulus for today's priests to be faithful in their daily lives,' he concluded before bidding farewell to the pilgrims present in the Vatican.
