Pope Leo XIV Calls for Ukraine-Russia Talks and Highlights Global Conflicts in Christmas Address
Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Christmas address (Urbi et Orbi) to crowds gathered in St Peter's Square, Vatican City, urging courage for Ukraine and Russia to engage in direct talks to end the ongoing war. He called for the cessation of weapon clamor and encouraged sincere, direct, and respectful dialogue between Ukraine, Russia, and the international community.
The Pope referenced ongoing US-led negotiations aimed at ending the fighting, noting that no direct talks between Russia and Ukraine had occurred in this round. He also highlighted broader global conflicts, including deadly border clashes in Thailand and Cambodia, and called for the restoration of friendship and reconciliation in Southeast Asia.
In a separate Christmas Day sermon in St Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV lamented the conditions faced by the homeless and emphasized the impact of wars on vulnerable populations. He drew attention to Gaza and the plight of Palestinians living in tents exposed to rain, wind, and cold amid a two-year war triggered by Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack.
Gaza, with a population of approximately 2.1 million largely displaced, faces severe challenges as aid agencies call for more tents and supplies ahead of winter. COGAT, the Israeli military body responsible for Gaza crossings, stated that almost 310,000 tents and tarpaulins had been delivered since the ceasefire began in October and rejected accusations of deliberate aid restrictions.
