Pope Leo XIV calls for 'courage' to end Ukraine war in historic first Christmas blessing

ST PETER'S SQUARE, VATICAN CITY: Pope Leo XIV used his Christmas address on Thursday, December 25, to urge Ukraine and Russia to find the "courage" to engage in direct talks to end the ongoing war. 

Speaking from the central balcony overlooking St Peter's Square during the traditional Urbi et Orbi blessing, the pontiff called for an end to conflicts worldwide.

His remarks came as US-led diplomatic efforts continued to seek a negotiated settlement between Kyiv and Moscow. The address marked Pope Leo's first Christmas message since assuming the papacy. 

Call for dialogue to end war in Ukraine 

Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Pope Leo appealed for an immediate cessation of hostilities and renewed diplomatic engagement.

"May the clamor of weapons cease, and may the parties involved, with the support and commitment of the international community, find the courage to engage in sincere, direct and respectful dialogue," he said. 

His comments came amid ongoing efforts by the United States to mediate an agreement between Ukraine and Russia, though direct talks between the two sides have reportedly not taken place during the current round of negotiations. 

The Pope stressed that peace can only be achieved through dialogue and mutual recognition.

During his earlier Christmas Day Mass inside St Peter's Basilica, he expanded on that message, saying, "There will be peace when our monologues are interrupted and, enriched by listening, we fall to our knees before the humanity of the other."

Thousands attended the Mass, which was followed by the Pope's traditional tour of the square in the popemobile before his public address. 

Pope Leo also highlighted conflicts in other regions, including border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, urging restoration of their "ancient friendship" and a renewed commitment to reconciliation.

He called for justice, peace and stability in Lebanon, Gaza, Israel and Syria, and asked for prayers for people affected by violence and political instability across Africa and Latin America.

Focus on humanitarian suffering and global crises 

Beyond active conflicts, the pope drew attention to humanitarian crises, particularly among displaced populations and the homeless.

"Fragile is the flesh of defenceless populations, tried by so many wars, ongoing or concluded, leaving behind rubble and open wounds," he said during this homily. 

Reflecting on the Christmas story, he added that God had "pitched his fragile tent" among humanity, linking the message to people living in makeshift shelters amid ongoing wars. 

Referring to conditions in Gaza, he asked, "How, then, can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold?"

Aid agencies have warned of worsening conditions due to winter weather and a shortage of supplies. 

Pope Leo, the first US-born pontiff, also reviewed the tradition of offering Christmas greetings in multiple languages, drawing applause when he spoke in English and Spanish.