“No more war”: Pope Leo calls for peace in Ukraine at first Sunday address

Pope Leo XIV calls for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and begging for an end to global conflict, which he likens to the "World War III."

In his first Sunday speech at the Vatican, the new pope urged an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza and the release of all hostages. He also welcomed the truce between India and Pakistan and ended in 1945 World War II.

Leo appeared on the windows of the Apostle's Palace, blessed thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square, and was echoed by his former Pope Francis. "I also resolve the great power of the world by repeating a call that is ever-present, 'never-ending war'," he said.

This is the first public appearance of the pope at the palace, elected him as the 267th Pope since he walked out of the balcony last Thursday after his two-day seat. Robert Prevost, 69, was the first Catholic leader, who was previously a little-known cardinal.

Pope Leo XIV wears a simple white Cassock instead of singing, instead of reciting Regina Kelly's prayers by giving blessings from the central balcony of the Apostles' Palace. Photo: Ciancaphoto Studio/Getty Images

Vatican observers seek clues about his pope’s direction and style noted that his blessings were not from the studio windows used by his predecessor, but from the central balcony. He wears a simple white cassava without a formal red cloak, instead of reciting the Latin Regina Caeli prayer, he sings.

“I am filled with the pain of my beloved Ukrainian people,” he said. “Let all possible achieve a true, just and lasting peace as soon as possible.” In an update on international pressure on Russia to cease hostilities, Leo called for the release of prisoners of war and return to Ukrainian children to return to their families.

He also urged a ceasefire in Gaza, where Israeli forces continued to slam, the return of hostages in the 7 October 2023 Hamas attack and humanitarian assistance to "wetted civilians." Food and medication shortages have severe malnutrition in babies.

Leo points out that many countries celebrate Mother's Day on Sunday and wish all mothers a happy Mother's Day, including those in heaven.

Earlier, he celebrated a private mass in the graves below St Peter's, containing the graves of the former Pope. Leo crosses Rome on Saturday to pray on the tomb of Francis, whose tomb was once buried in the tradition of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. Leo's official installation quality will expire next Sunday on May 18.