Pope Leo XIV on Sunday described peace in Ukraine as “an urgent necessity,” urging an immediate ceasefire and dialogue ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
Speaking during his regular Sunday address at St Peter’s Square, the American-born pontiff said, “Peace cannot be postponed. It is an urgent necessity that must find space in hearts and be translated into responsible decisions. I strongly renew my appeal: may the weapons fall silent, may the bombings cease, may a ceasefire be reached without delay, and may dialogue be strengthened to open the way to peace.”
Ukraine will mark four years since Russia launched its assault on February 24, 2022, a conflict that has devastated towns, displaced millions, and caused significant casualties on both sides.
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Russian forces continue to occupy nearly a fifth of Ukrainian territory and maintain offensives, particularly in the eastern Donbas region, despite heavy losses and repeated Ukrainian strikes on supply lines.
The United States has been actively pushing for an end to the conflict, facilitating several rounds of talks in recent weeks, though no clear breakthrough has been achieved.