Pope Leo calls for Ukraine and Russia to begin peace talks, urging courage and dialogue in his Christmas address. He appeals for global conflict resolution.
Ukraine, Russia, Pope Leo, Christmas address, peace talks, Vatican, global conflict, Gaza, humanitarian aid
During his first Christmas Urbi et Orbi address to thousands gathered in St Peter’s Square of Vatican City, Pope Leo made a heartfelt plea for an end to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. He called on both nations to “find the courage” to engage in direct, sincere, and respectful dialogue, aiming for an end to the war that has devastated countless lives.
Addressing the origin of the Ukraine conflict, Pope Leo stated, “May the clamour of weapons cease, and may the parties involved, with the support and commitment of the international community, find the courage to engage in sincere, direct and respectful dialogue.”
This significant appeal comes as international efforts, particularly those led by the United States, have sought to find a diplomatic resolution. However, direct negotiations between the warring parties have not yet commenced during the most recent round of talks.
The United States continues to work as mediator between Kyiv and Moscow, attempting to broker a deal that is acceptable to both sides. However, the lack of direct engagement remains a roadblock to progress on an agreement to end hostilities.
For an in-depth look at diplomatic efforts, explore updates from the United Nations.
In his Christmas remarks, Pope Leo also highlighted turmoil in other parts of the world. He referenced the deadly border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, which have persisted despite a July ceasefire. The pope urged both Southeast Asian nations to restore their “ancient friendship” and work towards reconciliation and peace.
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo delivered a sermon in St Peter’s Basilica, lamenting the conditions of homeless people globally, many of whom have been severely affected by ongoing conflicts. “Fragile is the flesh of defenceless populations, tried by so many wars, ongoing or concluded, leaving behind rubble and open wounds,” he remarked.
Turning his thoughts towards Gaza, Pope Leo invoked the story of Jesus’s birth, comparing the holy family’s sheltering to the plight of families in Gaza. He asked, “How, then, can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold?”
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, intensified since 7 October 2023, has left nearly the entire population of Gaza—2.1 million people—displaced. Many homes have been either destroyed or severely damaged, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, particularly under harsh winter storms.
While aid agencies continue to urge Israel to allow more tents and vital supplies into Gaza, Israel’s COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories) agency asserts that almost 310,000 tents and tarpaulins have been delivered since the start of the ceasefire.
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