Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace in Ukraine and Beyond
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On Sunday, Pope Leo XIV addressed the faithful, urging them to pray for peace in regions afflicted by conflict. He specifically highlighted Ukraine, the Middle East, and other areas where war continues to bring suffering to countless people.
Focus on Ukraine’s Ongoing Suffering
Speaking after the recitation of the Angelus prayer in St Peter’s Square, the Pope drew attention to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. He lamented that “even in these days, Ukraine continues to be struck by relentless attacks, leaving entire populations exposed to the cold of winter.” Expressing his deep sorrow, the Pope affirmed, “I follow what is happening with sorrow, I am close to those who suffer, and I pray for them.”
Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the prolonged conflict leads to “ever more serious consequences for civilians, widens the rift between peoples and pushes a just and lasting peace further away.” He issued an appeal for everyone to intensify their efforts to end the war.
Prospects for Peace Talks
The Pope’s remarks come at a time when Ukrainian and Russian mediators are preparing to hold face-to-face negotiations in Abu Dhabi, facilitated by the United States. Despite ongoing deadly strikes on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, both sides have reportedly agreed to a second round of U.S.-brokered direct peace talks scheduled for the following weekend.
Encouragement to Young People and the Importance of Nonviolence
During his address, Pope Leo XIV also acknowledged a group of young people from Catholic Action in Rome who were present in the Square. He expressed gratitude for their initiative, the “Caravan for Peace,” and commended them for “helping us adults to see the world from another perspective: that of cooperation among people and populations who are different.”
The Pope encouraged these young people to be builders of peace “at home, at school, in sports, everywhere.” He reminded them never to resort to violence, “neither in words nor in actions,” and stressed that evil is overcome by good.
Final Appeal for Global Peace
Concluding his message, Pope Leo XIV invited everyone to join the young people in praying for peace: in Ukraine, in the Middle East, and in all regions where conflict persists over interests that do not reflect the true needs of their peoples. “Peace is built through respect for people!” he declared.
