Pope Leo XIV, in Spain, says conflicts and polarization pushing world into crisis

Above, Pope Leo XIV speaks at the Spanish Parliament in Madrid on June 8, 2026. (AP)
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  • Pontiff firmly ‌reiterates his opposition to increased European ⁠military ⁠spending
  • Pope also called for a global response to the “tragic drama” of migration

MADRID: Pope Leo said on Monday that escalating conflicts and polarization were ‌pushing the ‌world into a “profound ‌spiritual ⁠and cultural crisis.”
In ⁠an address to Spain’s parliament during ⁠a week-long ‌tour of ‌the country, ‌Leo, ‌the first US pope, also firmly ‌reiterated his opposition to increased European ⁠military ⁠spending — calling it “troubling” — and urged help for the world’s migrants.
The pontiff also called for a global response to the “tragic drama” of migration, saying there should be a “respectful welcome” for migrants.
“The tragic drama of migration … challenges the conscience of nations and the ethical foundation of the international order today,” he said.
He told the Spanish parliament that there should be “safe and legal pathways, a respectful welcome and real opportunities for integration.”