Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful plea for peace during his first Sunday address at the Vatican, urging world leaders to end ongoing conflicts and avoid what he called a “third world war in pieces.”
Speaking from the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, the newly elected pontiff appealed for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a lasting peace in Ukraine, and expressed hope following the newly brokered truce between India and Pakistan.
“I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people,” the Pope said. “May all prisoners be freed. May children return to their families.”
He also voiced deep sorrow over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “May humanitarian aid reach civilians and all hostages be released,” he said.
Pope Leo, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago and a former missionary in Peru, was elected on Thursday after the passing of Pope Francis. He prayed at his predecessor’s tomb on Saturday and will be formally inaugurated in St Peter’s Square on 18 May.
Despite his American birth, the Vatican noted he is the second pope from the Americas, following Argentine-born Pope Francis. The 69-year-old is seen as a moderate who shares Francis' focus on migrants, environmental issues, and care for the poor.
Pope Leo took his name from the 19th-century Pope Leo XIII, known for his teachings on social justice. He has emphasized dialogue, unity, and the importance of preserving human dignity, especially in a world facing technological and geopolitical challenges.
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