Pope Leo XIV on Sunday underscored the importance of safeguarding Venezuelan sovereignty after U.S. forces captured President Nicolás Maduro and took control of the country`s governance.

Speaking in St. Peter`s Square during his Sunday prayer, the first American pope weighed in on the world events and called for the Venezuelan people`s interests to be put first.

"The good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over every other consideration and lead us to overcome violence and to undertake paths of justice and peace, safeguarding the country`s sovereignty, ensuring the rule of law enshrined in the Constitution, respecting the human and civil rights of each person and of all, and working to build together a serene future of collaboration, stability, and concord, with special attention to the poorest who suffer because of the difficult economic situation," Leo said.

He also encouraged the people gathered to hear his remarks to pray for the Venezuelan people.

Leo last month was asked at a news conference about President Trump`s threats to remove Maduro by force, and the U.S. pope urged against it.

"It is better to search for ways of dialogue, or perhaps pressure, including economic pressure," the pope said, adding, "if that is what they want to do in the United States."