APTOPIX Italy Pope

Pope Leo XIV is seen behind Arturo Martini's 1935 bronze statue of Minerva during a visit to Sapienza University of Rome's Città Universitaria campus to meet with faculty and students, Thursday, May 14, 2026.

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Pope decries the rise of AI-directed warfare, saying it leads to a spiral of annihilation

Pope decries the rise of AI-directed warfare, saying it leads to a spiral of annihilation

Pope Leo XIV has denounced investments in AI and high-tech weaponry, warning they lead to a “spiral of annihilation.” He called for peace in the Middle East and Ukraine during a visit to Rome’s La Sapienza University on Thursday. This marked the first papal visit to the campus since 2008. The pope was warmly welcomed, including by young Palestinians who arrived in Italy this week to study. Leo criticized increased military spending at the expense of education and healthcare. He emphasized the need for responsible AI development and highlighted the importance of valuing life and peace.