Pope Leo XIV calls for global truce on Christmas Day
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- Pope Leo XIV calls for a global Christmas truce, expressing sadness over Russia’s apparent rejection of a ceasefire.
Pope Leo XIV urged a worldwide truce on Christmas Day, expressing “great sadness” that Russia had apparently rejected a request for a ceasefire.
Speaking from his residence in Castel Gandolfo near Rome, the pope appealed to “all people of goodwill to respect a day of peace, at least on the feast of the birth of our Saviour.”
Ongoing conflict in Ukraine
Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and has consistently rejected ceasefire proposals, citing potential military advantages for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine withdrew troops from a town in the east after heavy fighting, with Russian strikes killing three civilians and cutting power to thousands amid freezing winter conditions.
Diplomatic efforts and meetings
Top negotiators from Russia and Ukraine met with US officials in Miami over the weekend to discuss potential solutions, but no immediate breakthrough was reported. Pope Leo also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier this month. When asked about visiting Ukraine, the pope said he hopes to do so but could not provide a timeline.
Cautions on peace initiatives
Pope Leo stressed that seeking peace in Ukraine without European diplomatic involvement is “unrealistic” and warned that US President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan could lead to a “huge change” in the transatlantic alliance.
Hope for global peace
The pope expressed hope for “24 hours of peace in the whole world,” urging all sides to listen and respect a day of calm during the Christmas celebration.
