In his inaugural Sunday address on May 11, 2025, Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff, delivered a heartfelt plea for global peace from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Addressing over 100,000 attendees in St. Peter’s Square, he called for an “authentic and lasting peace” in Ukraine, urged a ceasefire in Gaza, and welcomed the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The Pope emphasized the urgency of dialogue and negotiations, expressing sorrow over ongoing global conflicts and warning of a “Third World War being fought piecemeal.” He also called for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and highlighted the importance of humanitarian aid. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, delivered his speech in Italian, reflecting his commitment to global unity and peace.

Source: Reuters