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In a powerful and emotive Regina Coeli address on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV issued a global plea for peace, denouncing the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza and urging world leaders to prioritise diplomacy and humanitarian efforts.
Speaking from the window of the Apostolic Palace to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square and millions watching around the world, the newly elected pontiff invoked the memory of the Second World War and echoed the peace-driven legacy of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
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“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!” Pope Leo proclaimed, drawing on a phrase frequently used by Pope Francis during his papacy.
The Pope opened his address with a sombre reflection on the Second World War, which concluded 80 years ago this week. He described the conflict as an “immense tragedy” that led to the deaths of over 60 million people — a stark reminder, he said, of the cost of global indifference to violence.
Turning to the present day, Pope Leo XIV focused first on Ukraine, where more than two years of war with Russia have left a trail of destruction, mass displacement, and international concern.
“I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” he said, urging leaders to pursue “a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible.”
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The Pope also called for the release of prisoners and the reunification of separated families. “May all prisoners be freed, and may the children be returned to their families,” he implored.
His voice wavered with emotion as he addressed the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, where thousands have died amid an Israeli military campaign and ongoing hostilities with Hamas.
“I am deeply pained by what is happening,” Pope Leo said. “Let the fighting cease immediately, let humanitarian aid be provided to the exhausted civilian population, and may all hostages be released.”
Despite the dire nature of his appeals, the pontiff expressed measured hope over a recent development in South Asia. He welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan — nations long plagued by tensions and border conflicts.
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“I hope that, through the upcoming negotiations, a lasting agreement may soon be reached,” he said.
As he concluded his address, Pope Leo XIV turned to a spiritual source for hope, reflecting on the numerous other conflicts around the globe and making a prayerful plea.
“How many other conflicts are there in the world?” he asked, before entrusting his appeal to the Virgin Mary. “May Mary, Queen of Peace, present it to the Lord Jesus and obtain for us the miracle of peace.”
