Pope Calls on Russia and Ukraine to Cease Hostilities

Pope Leo XIV has urged Russia and Ukraine to halt military operations. The pontiff also extended condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the conflict and to all those affected. This news was reported by Vatican News.

“War only breeds new wars and causes immense suffering. It is time to stop the cycle of violence and open space for diplomacy and dialogue, paving the way toward peace,” the Pope stated after prayer.

In the context of the conflict, the pontiff emphasized the necessity of strictly adhering to international humanitarian law and condemned attacks on civilian objects. He also called for a ceasefire in Sudan, expressing concerns about the situation in El Obeid and the need for humanitarian corridors.

This is not the first time Pope Leo XIV has called for peace. In May 2025, during his first Sunday address, he urged an end to military actions and sought peaceful resolutions to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

In June of the same year, during a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Pope highlighted the importance of dialogue in finding solutions for the Ukrainian conflict. He asked the Russian leader to take a “step toward peace.”