Pope Leo XIV Appeals for Tranquility in Ukraine and Gaza: 'No More War'

On Sunday, positioned on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Sunday benediction following his election, captivating St. Peter's Square and the Vatican City's attendees on May 11, 2025.

In a heartfelt message, Pope Leo XIV urged the international community to strive for enduring and just peace in Ukraine. Additionally, he called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza, demanding the release of captives and a swift provision of aid to those in need.

Echoing a longstanding papal admonition, Leo emphasized to world leaders the necessity of his plea: 'never again war,' voiced from the prominent St. Peter's Basilica's balcony.

This marks the first return to the basilica's iconic balcony for Leo since his notable election as the first U.S.-born pope on Thursday evening. His emergence then was also grounded in a theme of peace.

Embracing the tradition of Sunday blessings at noon, Leo opted for a distinct approach. Unlike previous pontiffs who blessed from the Apostolic Palace's studio window, he positioned himself centrally in the square and at the basilica's core.

Adding a personal touch, Leo sang the 'Regina Caeli,' a traditional Latin prayer for the Easter season, deviating from the usual practice of mere recitation by past popes.

On this significant occasion, he wore the simple white robe symbolic of papal office, accessorized with his silver cross. This contrasted with the ornately revered cross containing relics of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, which he donned on the night of his election and holds special significance from his Augustinian order.

Referencing Pope Francis, Leo lamented the ongoing global conflicts, which he described as constituting 'a third world war in fragments.'

The Pope expressed deep empathy for the Ukrainian populace, advocating for every feasible measure to attain sincere, equitable, and sustainable peace promptly.

He called for the release of prisoners of war and urged efforts to reunite Ukrainian children with their families. Additionally, he acknowledged the ceasefire between India and Pakistan with approval.

Turning his attention to Gaza, Leo demanded an immediate end to violence and encouraged the delivery of humanitarian aid to relieve the fatigue of affected civilians, while also insisting on the liberation of all captives.

Acknowledging Mother's Day, observed on this day in numerous countries, he extended warm wishes to all mothers, including those in the hereafter.

The atmosphere in the square turned jubilant as marching bands performed, marking a Jubilee weekend event with Italian authorities estimating the attendance at around 100,000 people, all while the basilica's bells resounded cheerfully.

Earlier in the day, Leo conducted a private Mass alongside the Rev. Alejandro Moral Anton, his Augustinian order's head. This service took place in the sacred burial sites beneath St. Peter's, historically revered as resting grounds of St. Peter, the apostle and reputed first pope.

Within this area, open to the public regularly, lie the tombs of several popes, such as Pope Benedict XVI.

On Saturday, in an act of reverence, Leo spent time in prayer at the tomb of Pope Francis located at the St. Mary Major Basilica across the city.

Leo, who hails from Chicago and is 69 years old, ascended to being the 267th pope following Pope Francis's passing on April 21.