Pope Leo XIV calls for end to Russia-Ukraine war as civilian deaths rise
Pope Leo XIV (photo: Getty Images)
Pope Leo XIV once again called for an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine. During the Sunday Angelus prayer, he expressed deep concern over the growing number of civilian casualties, Reuters reports.
The pontiff said that innocent people are being killed and injured in both Ukraine and Russia, calling for an end to the conflict.
He also called on the parties to comply with international humanitarian law, emphasizing the need to protect civilians.
"Tragic incidents are multiplying, causing an ever-growing number of civilian victims, including children," the head of the Catholic Church said.
This is not the first time the Pope has mentioned the war in Ukraine and called on both sides for reconciliation. In his first address at the Vatican in 2025, following his election, he mentioned the war.
Reuters also cited UN data showing that more than 16,000 civilians have been killed in nearly four and a half years of war.
At the same time, the number of civilian casualties has increased significantly this year, particularly due to the more intensive use of drones and missiles.
Reuters noted in its report that eight people were injured in a Russian airstrike on Odesa in recent days. It also cited official data on drones and their consequences in Russia's Belgorod region.
Earlier, the Pope said that he carries in his heart the "suffering of the beloved people of Ukraine" and called for negotiations to achieve an "authentic, just and lasting peace."
As is known, Pope Francis died suddenly on April 21 last year. Earlier that year, he became seriously ill and was treated for pneumonia for more than a month.
