Pope Leo XIV Renews Heartfelt Appeal for Immediate Ceasefire in Ukraine
Pope Leo XIV has renewed his heartfelt appeal for an immediate ceasefire in the war between Russia and Ukraine, urging world leaders to silence weapons and strengthen dialogue to pave the way toward peace. Speaking after the Angelus prayer in St Peter’s Square, the Pope stressed that peace cannot be postponed and must be translated into responsible decisions.
Let the weapons fall silent and let the bombings cease, he said, as he reflected on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine. Although the conflict began in 2014, it intensified dramatically in February 2022, leading to widespread destruction and a deepening humanitarian crisis.
The Pope described the war as a tragedy unfolding before the eyes of the world, marked by shattered families, immense destruction and suffering that will echo across generations. Every war, he said, is a wound inflicted upon the entire human family, leaving death and devastation in its wake.
Recent data from the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine indicate that 2025 was the deadliest year for civilians since the start of the full scale invasion. The United Nations documented at least 2514 civilians killed and more than 12000 injured during the year, representing a significant increase compared to previous years. These figures reflect only verified casualties in areas under Ukrainian government control, suggesting that the overall toll may be higher.
Since February 2022, more than 14500 civilians have been confirmed killed, including hundreds of children. Humanitarian agencies estimate that approximately 10.8 million people across Ukraine will require assistance this year, including internally displaced persons and residents affected by ongoing attacks. Recent strikes have targeted civilian infrastructure and energy systems, exacerbating hardships during winter months.
Pope Leo XIV invited the faithful to unite in prayer for the people of Ukraine and for all those suffering from armed conflicts around the world. He expressed hope that the long awaited gift of peace would shine upon humanity and bring relief to those enduring fear and displacement.
The Holy See has consistently encouraged diplomatic engagement as the only path toward a just and lasting peace. In December, the Pope met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo. According to the Vatican press office, their discussions focused on the continuation of dialogue, the situation of prisoners of war and efforts to secure the return of Ukrainian children separated from their families.
As the war enters another year, the Pope’s appeal underscores the Church’s ongoing call for negotiations rooted in respect for human dignity and international law, emphasizing that peace remains an urgent moral imperative for the global community.
