‘No more war’ appeals Pope in first message, as Russia considers talks

In his first Sunday address since becoming pope on May 8, Pope Leo XIV made a powerful appeal to the world’s major powers: “No more war.” Speaking to tens of thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square and along the Via della Conciliazione, he called for an “authentic and lasting peace” in Ukraine, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Delivering his message in fluent Italian, Pope Leo welcomed the fragile ceasefire recently reached between India and Pakistan, expressing hope that it would lead to a lasting peace. He urged the world to pray for the “miracle of peace,” invoking a plea often repeated by the late Pope Francis.

“Enough of war!” Leo declared, echoing Francis’ warning of a “Third World War fought piecemeal.” He also reflected on the recent 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, which claimed around 60 million lives.

The Pope shared his deep concern for the “suffering of the beloved people of Ukraine,” just hours after Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct peace talks with Ukraine. Leo urged negotiations that would bring about a “genuine, just, and enduring peace.”

On the conflict in Gaza, the pontiff said he was “profoundly saddened,” calling for an immediate ceasefire, access to humanitarian aid, and the release of hostages.

Pope Leo concluded his message by welcoming the India–Pakistan ceasefire and expressing hope that talks would solidify peace between the nuclear powers. But, he added somberly, “There are so many other conflicts in the world.”