Pope Leo XIV is disappointed that Russia rejected the Christmas ceasefire proposal.
The pope made this statement to journalists before returning to the Vatican from Castel Gandolfo, according to Vatican News.
"Truly, among the things that cause me great sadness in these days is the fact that Russia has apparently refused the request for a Christmas truce. I renew my appeal to all people of good will to observe at least one day of peace on the birthday of the Savior. Perhaps they will listen to us, and there will be 24 hours - one full day of peace throughout the world," said the pontiff.
The Pope expressed hope for progress in the Holy Land peace process and showed disappointment over the recent passage of a euthanasia law in Illinois, his home state.
“We spoke very explicitly with Governor Pritzker about that; at that time, the bill was already on his desk,” said Leo XIV. "I am very disappointed by this. I would invite all people, especially during these Christmas feast days, to reflect on the nature of human life, the goodness of human life. God became human like us to show us what it really means to live a human life. And I hope and pray that respect for life will once again grow in all moments of human existence, from conception to natural death."