Cardinals Criticize U.S. Foreign Policy in Rare Joint Statement

Three prominent U.S. Cardinals issued a rare joint statement addressing the foreign policy of the United States, invoking the teachings of Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, D.C., and Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark presented their perspectives during a significant moment in U.S. diplomacy.

Cardinals Criticize U.S. Foreign Policy

On January 19, 2026, the Cardinals condemned current U.S. foreign policy approaches, citing moral imperatives from Pope Leo XIV’s recent address to the Holy See’s diplomatic corps. They emphasized the need for a foreign policy rooted in humanitarian values.

Key Highlights from the Statement

• Call for Moral Policy: The Cardinals underscored the duty to align U.S. foreign policies with the teachings of Pope Leo XIV.
• Consequences of Neglect: Cardinal Cupich expressed concern over decisions that lead millions to live on the brink of survival.
• Catholic Social Teaching: Cardinal McElroy affirmed that narrow national interests, if excluding solidarity and human dignity, exacerbate global suffering.
• Need for Dialogue: The Cardinals noted that current international relations are under threat, demanding a return to diplomacy instead of militarization.

Contextual Background

The Cardinals’ statement comes during a heightened debate over U.S. foreign policy, punctuated by crises in Venezuela, Ukraine, and Greenland. These events question America’s ethical stance on military intervention and peacekeeping.

Pope Leo XIV highlighted the importance of multilateralism and the dangers of allowing military force to dominate international relations. He warned that the principle against violating national borders has weakened since World War II.

U.S. Foreign Policy Debate

The current discourse on U.S. foreign policy is fraught with partisanship. The Cardinals argue that this polarization undermines the nation’s moral obligations. They advocate for policies that uphold human life, religious freedom, and the common good.

Conclusion

As spiritual leaders, the Cardinals are committed to promoting a foreign policy that reflects ethical standards and human dignity. Their joint statement seeks to elevate the national conversation surrounding foreign relations, aiming for a future characterized by peace and justice.