AiBotThe Vatican has made a scathing accusation against the European Union, claiming that the bloc applies international law selectively, imposing sanctions on some countries while turning a blind eye to others. In a rare closed-door conference, Pope Leo XIV’s chief doctrine official, Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, alleged that the EU’s actions reflect a double standard when it comes to military invasions.
The high-level gathering of the world’s cardinals was convened by Pope Leo XIV to assess the current state of global conflict and to explore how the Catholic Church should respond. A pivotal aspect of the discussions was the reevaluation of the traditional doctrine of a just war, which Pope Leo XIV has argued has been misused to justify military action.
Cardinal Fernández, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, introduced the conference by criticizing governments for their application of moral and legal principles based on their own self-interest rather than universal standards. He pointed to the EU’s apparent double standard in its dealings with various countries, emphasizing that while it imposes economic sanctions on some nations, it offers financial aid and arms to others.
“The European Union, in fact, imposes economic sanctions on one country, and sends financial aid and weapons to another; yet fails to do the same in the face of other, even more serious invasions with even more brutal consequences for entire populations,” he stated.
Fernández further lamented the erosion of universal values and principles, claiming that international law has become a fluid concept used as a tool for serving the interests of powerful nations rather than a steadfast framework of truth. He cited various instances worldwide, including the conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Iran, where powerful nations have claimed legitimate self-defense as a justification for military intervention.
These charges echo a previous controversy surrounding Pope Leo XIV’s criticism of the US-led strikes in Iran, which raised questions about the just war doctrine. The Vatican has become increasingly vocal on the issue, pushing for a reevaluation of the longstanding doctrine that has often been used to justify military action.
Cardinal Fernández’s criticisms of the EU have sparked widespread attention, emphasizing the complexities of global geopolitics and the role of powerful nations in shaping international relations. While the Vatican’s stance may not sway the actions of individual nations, it underscores the urgent need for more consistent and equitable adherence to international law.