Pope Leo XIV has made a strong and emotional appeal for global peace, condemning the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza while urging world leaders to end the violence and prioritise humanitarian efforts.
During his first-ever Regina Coeli address on Sunday, the new pontiff appeared at the window of the Apostolic Palace and spoke to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square, as well as millions watching across the globe.
Echoing the legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis, Pope Leo declared: “In today’s dramatic context of a third world war fought piecemeal… I too appeal to the powerful of the world by repeating these ever-relevant words: never again war!”
He began his message by referencing one of the deadliest periods in human history — the Second World War — which ended 80 years ago on May 8.
He described it as an “immense tragedy” that caused the deaths of over 60 million people, using the historical moment to highlight the urgent need to prevent another global catastrophe.
Pope Leo XIV turned his attention to the modern theatres of war, starting with Ukraine, where the prolonged war with Russia has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions.
I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he said.
He urged that “every effort be made to reach a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible.”