Vatican criticises EU double standards on war sanctions

Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, head of the Vatican’s doctrinal office, told a closed conference of cardinals that the European Union applies international law inconsistently – sanctioning some invasions while providing financial aid and weapons to other states. He said, “If a country is an enemy it is condemned and sanctioned, but if it is an ally the lack of free speech, human rights or democracy is ignored.” The remarks were made at a gathering convened by Pope Leo XIV to examine the modern “culture of power” behind conflicts and to reconsider the Church’s teaching on “just war.” Fernández’s criticism also highlighted disagreements with U.S. Vice‑President J.D. Vance over the criteria for legitimate self‑defence, citing examples from Russia, the United States and Israel. The Vatican signalled that the debate on war doctrine is ongoing.