On December 25, Pope Leo XIV called on Russia and Ukraine to immediately stop the war and begin peace negotiations during the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" (To the City and the World) address held in the Vatican. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
In his speech, the Pope recalled the suffering of the Ukrainian people and emphasized the necessity of halting armed actions. He urged the international community to assist in facilitating open and sincere dialogue between the parties to resolve the conflict.
The Pope said: "We remember the sufferings of the Ukrainian people. Let the weapons be silent, let the words of peace resound."
He delivered his speech from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to hundreds of people gathered in the square. The text of the address was later officially published.
Additionally, the Pope addressed conflicts in the Middle East, touching on issues of peace and stability in regions such as Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Syria. He also recalled humanitarian crises occurring in other parts of the world, including Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, Myanmar, and Cambodia, emphasizing the importance of achieving peace in these areas as well.
In his appeal, the Pope also called on the Russian army to cease fire. However, despite his previous appeals, military actions continue.
On December 25, at least four people were killed and 19 injured as a result of nighttime strikes on Ukrainian territories. The Pope's call once again drew the world's attention to the severe consequences of the war in Ukraine.
His words are not a political statement but a call of conscience urging humanity toward peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.
