On the eve of the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Pope Leo XIV called for an immediate ceasefire and urged unity in prayer for the suffering Ukrainian people.
This was reported by Vatican News.
"Dear brothers and sisters, four years have passed since the start of the war against Ukraine. My heart goes out to the people living through such suffering and devastation unfolding before the eyes of the whole world. So many victims, so many lives and families shattered, such immense destruction, such unspeakable suffering!" said Pope Leo XIV today after the traditional Angelus prayer.
He noted that every war is a wound inflicted upon the entire human family, leaving in its wake death, devastation, and a trail of pain that marks generations.
"Peace cannot be postponed. It is an urgent necessity that must find a home in our hearts and be translated into responsible decisions. Therefore, I urgently renew my appeal: let the weapons fall silent, let the bombings cease, let an immediate ceasefire be reached, and let dialogue be strengthened to pave the way toward peace," the pontiff emphasized.
He also invited everyone to "join in prayer for the embattled people of Ukraine and for all those who suffer due to this war and every conflict in the world, that the long-awaited gift of peace may shine upon our days."