Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine and Gaza, saying 'Never again war'

Published: Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 11:09 am

Pope Leo XIV Urges Peace in Ukraine and Gaza in First Public Address

VATICAN CITY - In his first public address as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV, the first American Pope, has called for an end to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Speaking from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica, the Pope echoed the sentiment of "never again war," urging for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Leo XIV's address, delivered during his first Sunday noon blessing, marked a departure from the traditional format. He chose to stand in the heart of St. Peter's Square, a symbolic gesture, and even sang the Regina Caeli prayer, a Latin hymn typically recited. He also wore a simple white cassock and his silver pectoral cross, a contrast to the more ornate cross he wore on the day of his election.

The Pope expressed his deep concern for the suffering of the Ukrainian people, calling for the release of prisoners of war and the return of Ukrainian children to their families. He also welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Regarding Gaza, Leo XIV demanded an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the exhausted civilian population.

Leo XIV, who was elected on Thursday following the death of Pope Francis, also acknowledged Mother's Day, extending his wishes to mothers worldwide. The event drew an estimated 100,000 people to St. Peter's Square, with the crowd erupting in cheers and music as the bells of the Basilica tolled. Prior to his public address, Leo XIV celebrated a private Mass near the tomb of St. Peter and prayed before the tomb of Pope Francis.

BNN's Perspective: Pope Leo XIV's early focus on peace and humanitarian concerns is a welcome sign. His direct appeals to world powers and his emphasis on the suffering of civilians in conflict zones demonstrate a commitment to the core values of the Catholic Church. While the challenges of achieving lasting peace are immense, the Pope's words offer a message of hope and a call for action.

Keywords: Pope Leo XIV, Ukraine, Gaza, peace, ceasefire, humanitarian aid, St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, hostages, war, conflict, Pope Francis, Mother's Day, American Pope, Regina Caeli, Sunday blessing.

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