Three prominent cardinals within the United States Catholic Church have voiced strong criticism of the Trump administration's foreign policy, asserting that recent actions threaten international stability and could lead to widespread suffering. The concerns, articulated in a joint statement released on May 9, 2025, by Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago, Robert McElroy of Washington D.C., and Joseph Tobin of Newark, focused specifically on the administration's pursuit of Greenland, military intervention in Venezuela, and reductions in global humanitarian aid. The statement was delivered at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, Italy, following the election of Pope Leo XIV.

The cardinals argued that these policies undermine the United States' moral standing on the global stage. "Our country's moral role in confronting evil around the world, sustaining the right to life and human dignity, and supporting religious liberty are all under examination," the statement read. The church leaders believe the Trump administration's approach jeopardizes international relations and disregards fundamental principles of human dignity.

The attempted acquisition of Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has been a source of international tension. While the Trump administration framed it as a strategic opportunity, critics viewed it as a neo-colonialist endeavor that disregarded the sovereignty and wishes of the Greenlandic people. Denmark swiftly rejected the proposal, further straining relations between the two nations.

The military action in Venezuela, while framed by the Trump administration as a necessary intervention to restore democracy, has been widely condemned by international organizations and governments. Critics argue that such intervention violates international law and exacerbates the already dire humanitarian crisis within the country. The Catholic Church, both within Venezuela and globally, has long advocated for a peaceful, negotiated solution to the political and economic turmoil plaguing the nation.

Furthermore, the cardinals highlighted the significant cuts to U.S. foreign aid under the Trump administration. These cuts have impacted numerous programs aimed at alleviating poverty, promoting health, and supporting education in developing countries. Critics contend that these reductions disproportionately affect the world's most vulnerable populations and undermine efforts to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. The Catholic Church, through its extensive network of charitable organizations, is a major provider of humanitarian assistance worldwide and has consistently advocated for robust U.S. support for international development.

The Vatican has historically played a significant role in international diplomacy, often serving as a mediator in conflicts and advocating for peace and justice. Pope Leo XIV, newly elected, is expected to continue this tradition, and these cardinals' statement can be seen as an attempt to influence both U.S. foreign policy and the broader international discourse. The statement's release in Rome, a center of global Catholic influence, underscores the seriousness with which these cardinals view the current situation. The long-term impact of these criticisms remains to be seen, but they represent a significant challenge to the Trump administration's foreign policy agenda from within a powerful and influential institution.