The Pope's statement was made in light of recent large-scale Russian attacks on Ukraine, particularly targeting energy facilities during the winter months. He highlighted that prolonged conflict causes "ever more serious consequences for civilians, widens the rift between peoples and pushes a just and lasting peace further away."
During Sunday prayers, Pope Leo XIV expressed his concerns about the ongoing situation in Ukraine, as reported by Vatican News.
The pontiff highlighted that the country is facing relentless attacks, resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis for the civilian population, especially with the harsh winter conditions approaching.
"I follow what is happening with sorrow, I am close to those who suffer, and I pray for them. The prolonged conflict causes ever more serious consequences for civilians, widens the rift between peoples, and pushes a just and lasting peace further away. I urge everyone to intensify their efforts to end the war," the Pope appealed.