Pope Leo XIV Urges Global Action for Lasting Peace in Ukraine During First Sunday Address
In his first Sunday address as the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV used his traditional midday blessing to issue a heartfelt plea for peace in Ukraine.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Vatican News.
Speaking from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV urged the international community to strive for a “true, just, and lasting peace” in Ukraine, expressing solidarity with the country’s people amid ongoing Russian aggression. “I carry the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people in my heart,” he said, in a message that drew applause from thousands gathered in Vatican City.
The Pope also demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, calling for the release of hostages and unobstructed delivery of humanitarian aid. Referring to the widespread global violence, he echoed the words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who described today’s multitude of armed conflicts as a “piecemeal World War III.”
“May all captives be freed, and may children be reunited with their families… No more war,” Pope Leo declared, as church bells rang out and crowds responded with emotional applause.
Reflecting on the tragedy of World War II, which claimed the lives of over 60 million people, Pope Leo XIV repeated a poignant appeal to world leaders: “Never again war.” The statement was a direct reminder of the devastating cost of unchecked aggression and the moral duty of global powers to prevent new catastrophes.
In a moment of cautious optimism, the Pope welcomed the recently announced ceasefire between India and Pakistan, expressing hope that diplomacy and dialogue could prevail in other regions of tension.
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV's official inauguration Mass will take place on Sunday, May 18, in St. Peter’s Square.
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