Pope calls for 24 hours of peace after Russian attacks on Ukraine

"I once again make this appeal to all people of goodwill: that, at least on the feast of the birth of the Saviour," Leo XIV said during an address from Castel Gandolfo on the evening of December 23.

Speaking to journalists, he also commented on Russia's refusal of a Christmas ceasefire.

"Truly, among the things that cause me great sadness in these days is the fact that Russia has apparently refused the request for a Christmas truce," the Pope said.

Leo XIV once again called on Russia to agree to a ceasefire at Christmas.

"Perhaps they will listen to us, and there will be 24 hours - one full day of peace throughout the world," he emphasized.

Christmas ceasefire

Earlier, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on Russia to declare a Christmas ceasefire with Ukraine. He expressed confidence that this could become a prologue to a permanent ceasefire.

The proposal was supported by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who emphasized that much in this matter depends on Russia's political will.

However, in Moscow, the idea of a Christmas ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia was cynically rejected.

"We want peace, we do not want a ceasefire that would give Ukraine time to rest and prepare to continue the war," said Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

At the same time, Zelenskyy warned that Russia may resort to massive strikes on Ukraine during the Christmas period.