Pope Leo XIV has urged Russia and Ukraine to sit down and engage in dialogue to resolve their differences, emphasizing that the Church would continue to promote alternatives to war. Speaking to journalists on a flight from Metz to Rome, the Pope stated that the Church's social teaching opposed violence, hatred, and the dangers posed by increasingly destructive wars. He stressed the need for a voice that could offer another way, rather than calling for increased spending on weapons.
The Pope criticized the continued spending on the military industry, saying that a small number of people were becoming immensely wealthy from an industry that promotes war. He noted that these billions of euros or dollars could be used to solve problems such as world hunger, housing, and unemployment. Pope Leo XIV emphasized that the world was looking for a voice that could offer another way, rather than increasing tensions that could lead to another conflict.
Pope Leo XIV's remarks came as Russia-Ukraine hostilities continued, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reporting casualties following Russian strikes on Kyiv. Zelenskyy stated that emergency services were working at the site of a direct strike on the Academy of Sciences building in Kyiv, with one person reported killed and six people injured, including three children. He called for pressure on everything that finances and produces Russia's weapons of terror.
The Ukrainian President emphasized that the world must understand that terrorists will keep going if they are not stopped in Ukraine. He stated that such brutal strikes must not be ignored and that there must be a response with global resolve and strength. Zelenskyy said Ukraine was counting on the strength of Europe, America, and other partners who can help protect lives.
Pope Leo XIV stressed that the Church has a responsibility to promote values that encourage dialogue and negotiations, rather than the use of force. He stated that the Church would continue to raise its voice, continually inviting leaders to engage in dialogue and seek ways of resolving problems without continuing wars that no longer make sense. The Pope emphasized that the Church cannot force anyone, but will keep speaking, inviting, and proclaiming the Gospel.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump said he wanted Russia and Ukraine to "settle" the war, following a bilateral meeting with Zelenskyy. Meanwhile, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues, with multiple casualties reported and various infrastructure damaged. The international community remains concerned about the situation, with many calling for a peaceful resolution.
Key points from Pope Leo XIV's statement include his call for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, criticism of the military industry, and emphasis on the Church's role in promoting peace. The Pope's remarks highlight the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and the importance of promoting dialogue and negotiations.
Key points
- Pope Leo XIV urges Russia and Ukraine to engage in dialogue to end the war.
- The Pope criticizes the military industry for promoting war and increasing tensions.
- The Church emphasizes its role in promoting peace and encouraging dialogue and negotiations.
