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AI Ethics
4d ago

Pope Leo XIV warns of dangers of AI in warfare and calls for peace in conflict zones

May 15, 2026
AI Summary

During a visit to La Sapienza University in Rome, Pope Leo XIV criticized the rise of military spending and the use of artificial intelligence in warfare, describing it as a 'spiral of annihilation.' He emphasized the need for responsible development of AI and called for peace in regions like the Middle East and Ukraine.

Pope Leo XIV warns of dangers of AI in warfare and calls for peace in conflict zones
  • Pope Leo XIV spoke at La Sapienza University, marking the first papal visit since 2008.
  • He condemned increased military spending in Europe, which he said detracts from education and healthcare.
  • The Pope highlighted the need for monitoring AI development to ensure it does not diminish human responsibility in warfare.
  • He expressed concern over conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and other regions, linking them to the misuse of new technologies.
  • The Pope's remarks coincided with the arrival of Palestinian students in Italy through a humanitarian corridor.
  • One student, Nada Rahim Jouda, shared her hopes for her family's future amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
ai warfarepeaceethical implicationsglobal conflictpope leo