Pope Leo has voiced concerns about the risks involved in removing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and seemingly urged President Trump to prioritize talks and diplomatic approaches, according to various reports.

This significant plea from the pontiff occurred as the White House escalated its efforts against Maduro this week, primarily due to accusations of his administration’s involvement in illicit drug trafficking.

“Our aim is to de-escalate the situation, prioritizing the well-being of the populace, as in such scenarios, it is the people who bear the brunt, not those in power,” Leo informed journalists during his return flight from Lebanon on Tuesday.

“The messages emanating from the United States are shifting, and we must observe. … While it appears a phone call occurred between the two presidents, there also exists the peril, the potential, for an action, an operation, possibly including an invasion of Venezuelan soil.”

The pope made his remarks after military operations commenced in the Caribbean, which included targeting vessels believed to be involved in drug trafficking.

Reports this week indicated that President Trump made a phone call to Maduro, demanding his immediate resignation from power.

Maduro reportedly refused, instead insisting on a “” for himself and his allies.

“I continue to believe it is preferable to pursue dialogue amid this pressure, including economic sanctions, but also to seek an alternative approach to effect change if that is the United States’ chosen course,” the Pope further stated.

Addressing 81 journalists on the papal aircraft, he seemingly conveyed apprehension regarding the escalating tensions.

In response to a reporter’s query, Leo also remarked that the messages from the U.S. administration concerning its Venezuelan policy appeared ambiguous.

The 70-year-old Chicago-born pontiff, elected in May after the death of , also utilized the in-flight news conference to discuss the Holy See’s role, which involves working “behind the scenes” in peace negotiations to ensure all parties might disarm.

He additionally touched upon the Middle East and the conflict in Ukraine.

Digital has contacted the Vatican for a statement.