Pope Leo XIV of Rome, in his first Sunday address, called on the world to make active efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine and to stop the bloodshed in the Gaza region
On Sunday, May 11, a strong call for peace was addressed to Vatican followers and all believers by the new spiritual leader of the Catholic Church — Pope Leo XIV. His speech from the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Basilica became the pontiff’s first official statement since his election and immediately drew worldwide attention. In his words, he urged the urgent cessation of hostilities in Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing the need for the quick rescue of prisoners and hostages in the conflict. This appeal became a voice calling for reconciliation and humanity in difficult times, as well as a show of solidarity with all victims of war. Addressing those present and television viewers, Pope Leo XIV emotionally proclaimed: “Never again war!” — this phrase became the leitmotif of his speech, highlighting the church’s principled stance on ending wars. Speaking about the situation in Ukraine, he stressed the necessity of an immediate and just peace, calling on the parties to refrain from protests and violence. In the context of global events, the pontiff also referred to the situation in Gaza, urging a ceasefire and the release of all hostages in the region. He also noted the example of the ceasefire between India and Pakistan, which became a symbol of hope for the entire world. He particularly emphasized a warning that the modern world is experiencing its “third world war in parts,” reminding us that global crises and conflicts still belong to one large struggle for peace and stability. The pontiff also did not forget the historical aspect; he mentioned the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and called on everyone to remember the lessons of the past to prevent new tragedies. Before beginning his address, the Pope celebrated a private Mass at the tomb of Saint Peter, in the presence of the Prior of the Augustinian Order. At this time, he also prayed near the tomb of Pope Francis in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, emphasizing unity and spiritual connection between generations of church leaders. Choosing the name Leo XIV, the new pope became the first in the history of the USA and the entire papacy to bear this name. His election drew great interest among pilgrims and the international press — Saint Peter’s Square was crowded the day before with believers carrying flags from around the world. This testifies to the relevance and significance of the new church leader in the modern global context. The background of this event was the election of 69-year-old American Cardinal Robert Francis Preo on May 8, which immediately caused widespread resonance. The choice of the name Leo XIV, after one of the notable popes of the Roman Church, symbolizes a desire for the consolidation of spirituality and historical traditions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his congratulatory message on the election of Leo XIV, expressed hope that the new pontiff will heed calls for a just peace and openly support efforts to end conflicts. Zelensky emphasized the importance of such support for further strengthening international dialogue and humanitarian cooperation. Thus, the first words and steps of the new Pope Leo XIV marked an important stage in global diplomacy and spirituality, underscoring the unchanging role of the church in seeking peace and humanity in the modern world.