At the conclusion of Wednesday’s General Audience, Pope Leo XIV renewed his urgent appeal for peace in Ukraine and called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
He also emphasized the need to release hostages and protect children caught in the violence.
The Pope made a forceful plea for a “ceasefire now” in Gaza, demanding the liberation of all hostages and full respect for international humanitarian law.
He spoke about the suffering of innocent civilians, highlighting the pain of parents who hold the lifeless bodies of their children and are forced to flee repeatedly in search of food, water, and safety from ongoing bombardments.
This appeal came just one day after nearly 50 people were injured while attempting to receive food aid at distribution sites in Gaza.
The crisis follows a renewed Israeli military offensive in an area that has been under siege since the October 2023 attacks by Palestinian militant groups.
Addressing the situation in Ukraine, the Pope condemned recent waves of Russian drone and missile strikes, which have targeted civilian areas and become the most intense since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.
He expressed his closeness and prayers for all victims, especially children and families, and once again urged the international community to stop the war and support every initiative aimed at promoting dialogue and peace.
By Vatican
28th May 2025
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