US EditionPope Leo Expresses 'Much Sadness' About Russia Refusing ...
Pope Leo XIV expressed sorrow over Russia's refusal of a Christmas truce and called for a 24-hour ceasefire amid ongoing heavy fighting in Ukraine.
- On December 22, 2025, Pope Leo XIV received Roman Curia employees and families in the Paul VI Hall, Vatican, expressing great sadness that Russia apparently rejected a Christmas truce request.
- Russia's wider campaign has included massive raids killing three civilians and cutting power amid freezing temperatures, while Russian forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and rejected ceasefire calls after Miami meetings.
- Using direct appeals, Pope Leo said, `I am renewing my request to all people of good will to respect a day of peace` and mentioned contact with Father Gabriel Romanelli, urging progress in Gaza peace efforts.
- Turning to U.S. policy, the Pope expressed disappointment at Illinois approving assisted suicide for adults with terminal illnesses starting September 2026 and lamented Governor J.B. Pritzker's decision despite his pleas.
- Earlier this month, after meeting Volodymyr Zelensky, Pope Leo said `I hope so` about visiting Ukraine but warned peace without European diplomacy was "unrealistic".
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Pope Leo XIV appeals to the conflict parties around the world to keep their weapons silent, at least on Christmas Day. He is particularly disappointed by Russia's rejection of a ceasefire.
Pope Leon of XIV asked, Tuesday night, an amnesty of one day, Christmas, all over the world, without mentioning any conflict, but he regrets that "Russia seems to have rejected the request for armasty".
On Tuesday Pope Leo XIV asked for a one-day truce for Christmas, without mentioning any particular conflict. "What saddens me particularly is the fact that Russia seems to have rejected" this request, he added. Follow the latest information. - IN DIRECT - War in Ukraine: the Pope regrets that Russia "seems to have rejected the request for a truce" of Christmas (International).
Shortly before Christmas, Pope Leo XIV took a clear stand on the war in Ukraine. On Christmas Eve, the new head of the Catholic Church will celebrate his first Christmette in St. Peter's Basilica.
The Catholic Church leader has promoted Christmas for a day of peace. The Pope is disappointed about Russia's rejection of a ceasefire.
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