Pope Leo XIV expresses solidarity with Ukraine during first Sunday prayer

Vatican News reported the information.

"I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people," Pope Leo XIV said, urging that "every effort be made to reach a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible. May all prisoners be freed, and may the children be returned to their families."

Earlier, he said, "Brothers and sisters, the great tragedy of the Second World War ended eighty years ago, on May 8, causing 60 million casualties. In the current picture of the fragmented Third World War, as Pope Francis has repeatedly stated, I also turn to the world's leaders, reiterating the ever-relevant call: 'Never again war!'"

After the plea for Ukraine, Pope Leo XIV also expressed his pain regarding the situation in the Gaza Strip, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the swift delivery of humanitarian aid to the population, as well as the release of all hostages.

"On the other hand, I was pleased with the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, and I hope that a long-term agreement will be reached in the upcoming negotiations," the pontiff said.

• On Thursday, May 8, the cardinals elected the new Pope on the third attempt: Robert Francis Prevost from the United States, who took the name Leo XIV.