US EditionPope Leo calls for Ukraine peace and Gaza ceasefire in first Sunday address
- On May 12, 2025, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Sunday noon blessing from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, addressing global conflicts.
- His appeal followed his election on the preceding Thursday as the first U.S.-born pope and reflected continuity with Pope Leo XIII’s social focus and Pope Francis’ emphasis on peace.
- Pope Leo urged for a genuine and enduring peace in Ukraine, demanded an immediate halt to the conflict in Gaza, emphasized the release of hostages, and highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to support Gaza’s weary civilian population.
- He addressed an estimated 100,000 people below, repeating “never again war” and quoting Pope Francis that a “third world war in pieces,” while expressing heartfelt solidarity with Ukraine.
- Leo’s message signaled a traditional style and unity theme amid a polarized Church, encouraging dialogue and service, with cautious optimism from observers about healing divisions.
444 Articles
444 Articles
Pope Leo XIV appeals for 'no more war' in first Sunday message
VATICAN CITY – Pope Leo XIV appealed to the world’s major powers for “no more war” in his first Sunday message to crowds in Saint Peter’s Square since his election as pontiff. The new pope, elected on Thursday, May 8, called for an “authentic and lasting peace” in Ukraine, a ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of all Israeli hostages held by militant group Hamas. Speaking in fluent Italian, Leo also welcomed the recent fragile ceasefire between I…
Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Gaza and Ukraine, saying ‘Never again war’
Pope Leo XIV called for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the war in Ukraine on Sunday, in his first Sunday noon blessing as pontiff since his election. He spoke from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.“I am deeply pained by what is happening,” said Leo, referring to the war in Gaza. “Let the fighting cease immediately, let humanitarian aid be provided to the exhausted civilian population, and may all hostages be released.”Leo also talked about …
Salvini: "Someone in Brussels doesn't work for peace." And on the re-armament: "No tanks for EU countries"
The words of the Holy Father that struck me? Peace, first of all. The message to the powerful of the Earth is enough war. I have the impression that someone is not feeding paths of peace, but is blowing on the war. I think someone's ears are whistling, in Paris and Brussels there is someone who is not fighting for peace. Thus the vice-premier and leader of the League, Matteo Salvini, on the occasion of the closing day of the Political Formation …
Leo's First Sunday Appeal: 'Never Again War'
In his first Sunday address, newly elected Pope Leo XIV stepped into the heart of St. Peter's Square to urge world leaders toward peace in Ukraine and Gaza—offering a few tweaks to tradition alongside his message. The Chicago-born pontiff's call for ceasefires and humanitarian aid was met by cheers...
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