Pope Leo urges ceasefire ahead of fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Pope Leo said that four years had passed since the start of the war against Ukraine, adding that his heart returned to what he described as a tragic situation marked by many victims, broken lives and families, widespread destruction, and immense suffering.

He stressed that every war is a wound that leaves death, devastation, and lasting pain affecting entire generations, and he emphasized that peace must not be delayed, calling for weapons to fall silent.

The pontiff said peace is an urgent necessity that must take root in people’s hearts and be reflected in responsible decisions, reiterating his appeal for the guns to fall silent, for bombardments to stop, and for an immediate ceasefire alongside intensified dialogue to open a path to peace.

In conclusion, he urged people to unite in prayer for the Ukrainian people and for all those suffering from the war in Ukraine and other conflicts worldwide so that peace may prevail.

Pope Leo and Ukraine

It is recalled that in early February, amid severe cold in Ukraine and the consequences of Russian strikes, humanitarian assistance was organized, including generators, medicines, and food supplies.

The Pope also said in December that he was ready to visit Ukraine, although the trip depends on security conditions, while the Vatican has already developed an organizational plan that could allow the visit to take place.