Pope Leo XIV Breaks Silence On Ukraine And Gaza

In his first major public appearance, Pope Leo XIV addressed the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, captivating over 100,000 worshippers with a message that left the world in suspense.

Pope Leo XIV has made his first public speech as leader of the Catholic Church, using the opportunity to speak strongly about the ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine.

Standing before about 100,000 people at St. Peter’s Square, he called for peace and urged world leaders to take action.

During the blessing, he asked for an end to the violence in Gaza, saying, “Let the fighting cease immediately, let humanitarian aid be provided to the exhausted civilian population, and may all hostages be released.” He also spoke about the suffering in Ukraine, stating, “I carry in my heart the sufferings of the beloved Ukrainian people. Let everything possible be done to achieve genuine, just and lasting peace as soon as possible.”

He also welcomed the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and widened his message to all nations, saying: “In today’s dramatic context of a third world war fought piecemeal…I too appeal to the powerful of the world by repeating these ever-relevant words: never again war!”

This speech was his first major public appearance since becoming pope. His predecessor had been mostly absent from public life due to health issues, and Leo XIV’s words have already drawn international attention.

Father Ihor Yatsiv, a spokesperson for the Greek Catholic Church in Ukraine, praised the pope, saying, “We identify Pope Leo XIV as a pope of hope for Ukraine,” and described him as “a pope who stood on the side of the oppressed” and someone who speaks “out against the powerful of this world.”

Political figures around the world also reacted. One leader wrote, “It is such an honor to realize that he is the first American Pope. What excitement, and what a Great Honor for our Country. I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. It will be a very meaningful moment!” Another official added, “I’m sure millions of American Catholics and other Christians will pray for his successful work leading the Church. May God bless him!”

A top diplomat said, “This is a moment of profound significance for the Catholic Church, offering renewed hope and continuity amid the 2025 Jubilee Year to over a billion faithful worldwide. The papacy carries a sacred and solemn responsibility.”

Pope Leo XIV’s formal installation ceremony is scheduled for next Sunday. It will mark the beginning of his role as the Bishop of Rome and leader of the Roman Catholic Church, setting the tone for how he will guide the Church in the coming years.

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