Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace Amid Ongoing Conflicts
CASTEL GANDOLFO, Italy — On a day marked by reflection and prayer, Pope Leo XIV urged for a peaceful resolution to the growing violence around the world. His comments came as he celebrated a Catholic feast day that coincided with a significant meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine.
While the pope did not specifically address the summit, he has continually emphasized the need for dialogue and an end to hostilities, engaging directly with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in past discussions.
Reflecting on the significance of August 15, a day honoring the Virgin Mary, Pope Leo recalled that this feast was established by Pope Pius XII during World War II. “Pius hoped that human lives would never again be lost to wars,” Leo stated. “These words resonate profoundly today as we witness an unsettling increase in violence, seemingly disregarding our shared humanity.”
The pope’s prayer emphasized a vision for hope and a future free from the grip of armed conflict, insisting that we cannot accept war as the norm.
Pope Leo was not alone in his prayers for peace. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians, also prayed for a successful outcome from the U.S.-Russia summit. Speaking from Gokceada, Turkey, he called on leaders to prioritize peace and justice, urging them to seek understanding rather than conflict. “We need not kill one another to make space,” he remarked.
From the main piazza of Castel Gandolfo, where he has been enjoying a summer retreat, Pope Leo expressed hope that the talks in Alaska would lead to a cease-fire, voicing concern that the war in Ukraine has dragged on too long, causing too much suffering.
As he approaches his 100th day as pope, Leo plans to spend the long weekend in Castel Gandolfo, taking time to connect with the local community, including sharing a meal with those in need.
The coming days will see him return to the Vatican, where he has been actively engaging with various faith communities and promoting peace messages during these trying times.
