Pope Leo XIV on Sunday called for an urgent end to the war in Ukraine, describing peace as “an urgent necessity” that must be embraced in hearts and translated into responsible action.
Speaking during his regular Sunday address at St. Peter’s Square, the American-born pontiff appealed for an immediate ceasefire. “May the weapons fall silent, may the bombings cease, may a ceasefire be reached without delay, and may dialogue be strengthened to open the way to peace,” he said.
Ukraine will mark four years since Russia launched its invasion on February 24, 2022, a conflict that has devastated towns, displaced millions, and caused significant casualties on both sides.
Moscow continues to control nearly a fifth of Ukrainian territory and maintains offensives, particularly in the eastern Donbas region, despite heavy losses and repeated Ukrainian attacks on supply lines.
The United States has intensified diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, facilitating multiple rounds of talks in recent weeks, though no breakthrough has been achieved.
