Pope Leo XIV calls for just peace as Ukraine reels from Russia's nonstop strikes
Photo: Pope Leo XIV (Getty Images)
Pope Leo XIV voiced support for Ukraine following Russia's large-scale attacks on the country's energy infrastructure. He called for prayers for a "just and lasting peace" for the Ukrainian people, who are enduring severe hardships.
The pontiff wrote that he "followed with sorrow" the news of renewed attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv. The strikes have caused civilian deaths and injuries, including among children.
"These assaults cause deaths and injuries, among them children, and inflict serious damage on civilian infrastructure, leaving families homeless as the cold sets in. I assure my closeness to the people so harshly tested. We must not grow accustomed to war and destruction!" he wrote.
Leo XIV urged Catholics to pray for the arrival of a "just and lasting peace in war-torn Ukraine."
Following Russia's massive strikes on Ukraine's energy sector on the night of November 8, widespread power outages remain in effect. The situation could worsen with the onset of colder weather, as Russian forces continue to carry out attacks on energy infrastructure.
Russian forces are also continuing attacks on Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, where a large-scale missile and drone strike on November 14 killed seven people and injured 35.
New Pope Leo XIV backs Ukraine
Leo XIV, Robert Francis Prevost, an American cardinal, became Pope on May 8, 2025. During one of his first masses, he mentioned Ukraine and the war. In another address in May, the newly elected pontiff accused Russia of imperialism and called for disarmament, which his predecessor Pope Francis did not do.
In late August, Pope Leo XIV called for a halt to hostilities and immediate negotiations, which were expected to take place in the Vatican. Russia strongly opposed this.
In September, commenting on the Vatican's role in the Ukraine war, Leo XIV emphasized that while calls for peace remain a priority, it is unlikely that the Vatican will become a direct mediator between the two sides at this time.
