Never again war: Pope Leo calls for peace in Ukraine in first Sunday address

Published: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 1:40 pm

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace in Ukraine and Global Conflicts in First Public Address

In his inaugural Sunday address, Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church, delivered a powerful message of peace, focusing on the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Addressing tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope echoed the pleas of his predecessor, Pope Francis, and called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid in both regions.

Pope Leo XIV, the first US leader of the Catholic Church, emphasized the urgent need for a "just and lasting peace" in Ukraine, urging the release of war prisoners and the return of Ukrainian children to their families. He also addressed the situation in Gaza, calling for the release of hostages seized in the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023, and the provision of aid to the suffering civilian population. The Pope highlighted the critical shortages of food and medicine, which have led to severe malnutrition among infants.

The Pope's address, delivered from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, marked his first public appearance since his election. He chose a simple white cassock and sang the Regina Caeli prayer, departing from some traditions of his predecessors. He also referenced the end of World War II in 1945, emphasizing the importance of preventing future conflicts. He also welcomed the truce between India and Pakistan.

The Pope's focus on global conflicts and his direct appeals for peace signal a continuation of the Church's commitment to humanitarian efforts and diplomatic solutions. His formal installation mass is scheduled for next Sunday, May 18th.

BNN's Perspective: Pope Leo XIV's strong stance on peace, particularly his focus on Ukraine and Gaza, is a welcome message in a world grappling with numerous conflicts. While the Church's role in international diplomacy is often complex, the Pope's clear call for humanitarian aid and an end to hostilities is a positive step. His emphasis on dialogue and the release of prisoners and hostages is a crucial reminder of the human cost of war.

Keywords: Pope Leo XIV, Ukraine, Gaza, peace, ceasefire, humanitarian aid, hostages, war, conflict, Vatican, St. Peter's Square, Catholic Church, Robert Prevost, Mothers Day, global conflicts, India, Pakistan, Russia, Hamas, war prisoners, Ukrainian children.

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