Pope Leo XIV Condemns Violence in Ukraine and Holy Land, Requires Real Peace
VATICAN CITY, Could 14, 2025 – Pope Leo XIV, in his newest statements, has reiterated his pressing name for an finish to violence in Ukraine and the Holy Land, emphasizing that true peace should not be marred by abuse or injustice. Talking throughout a normal viewers on the Vatican, the pontiff expressed deep sorrow over the continuing conflicts, urging international leaders and communities to pursue “genuine, simply, and lasting peace” that respects human dignity and prevents additional struggling.
Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, now in its fourth yr since Russia’s 2022 invasion, Pope Leo XIV said, “I carry in my coronary heart the struggling of the beloved Ukrainian individuals. Sufficient violence—let each effort be made to silence the weapons and convey a peace that’s not tainted by oppression or abuse.” His remarks echo his earlier condemnation of Russia’s actions as an “imperialist invasion” in 2022, when he was nonetheless Bishop Robert Prevost, a stance that marked a departure from his predecessor Pope Francis’ extra impartial tone. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who invited the pope to go to Ukraine throughout a latest telephone name, praised Leo’s clear help for Kyiv and his advocacy for the return of deported Ukrainian youngsters.
On the battle within the Holy Land, Pope Leo XIV renewed his plea for a right away ceasefire in Gaza, the discharge of all hostages, and unhindered humanitarian help. “The violence within the Holy Land wounds the center of God and humanity. Peace should prevail, however it can’t be constructed on the ashes of injustice or abuse,” he stated, referencing the continuing Israel-Hamas conflict. His name for a ceasefire aligns together with his first Sunday blessing on Could 11, the place he declared, “By no means once more conflict!” to a crowd of over 100,000 in St. Peter’s Sq., incomes thunderous applause. The pontiff additionally expressed solidarity with journalists risking their lives to report on these conflicts, urging their launch if imprisoned and condemning divisive rhetoric that fuels hatred.
Leo XIV’s imaginative and prescient for peace emphasizes communication rooted in compassion and reality, warning towards “fanaticism and prejudice” that perpetuate cycles of violence. His remarks come amid diplomatic efforts, together with U.S.-led peace talks for Ukraine and a latest India-Pakistan ceasefire, which he welcomed as a hopeful step. As the primary U.S.-born pope, his candid model and concentrate on international unity have resonated extensively, although some traditionalists query how he’ll deal with inside Church divisions and points just like the clergy abuse scandal.
The pontiff’s message underscores a dedication to peace that rejects violence and abuse in all kinds, entrusting his attraction to “Mary, Queen of Peace, for a miracle of reconciliation.” His upcoming inauguration Mass on Could 18 is anticipated to additional amplify his name for international concord.
Sources: Vatican Information, CBS Information, The Guardian, Instances of India, NBC Information, posts on X
