Pope Leo XIV delivered his first Christmas address, speaking about global conflicts and appealing for Russia and Ukraine to engage in dialogue, while expressing concern for the people of Gaza.
Foreign news agencies reported that Pope Leo XIV gave his first Christmas address at St. Peter's Square in Vatican City on 25 Dec 2025 GMT+7, calling on Ukraine and Russia to find the “courage” for direct negotiations to end the war.
During his "Urbi et Orbi" blessing, Pope Leo XIV called for an end to conflicts worldwide. Traditionally, the head of the Roman Catholic Church addresses the faithful gathered in Vatican City on Christmas Day.
The Pope spoke about Ukraine: “May the clamor of war cease, and may all involved parties, supported by and committed to the international community, find the courage to face each other for sincere, direct dialogue with mutual respect.”
Pope Leo's plea comes as peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, led by the United States, continue. The U.S. seeks a mutually acceptable agreement, but direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have yet to occur.
The Pope also criticized turmoil and conflicts in other parts of the world, including Thailand and Cambodia, where border clashes have caused fatalities despite a ceasefire declared in July. He called for the restoration of the “long-standing friendship” among Southeast Asian nations and urged all parties to “work together toward reconciliation and peace.”
Earlier that day, during his Christmas sermon at St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo XIV expressed sorrow over the plight of homeless people worldwide and the damage caused by various conflicts.
“The flesh of the defenseless population is so fragile. They suffer deeply from many wars, whether ongoing or ended, leaving behind ruins and wounds yet to heal,” the Pope said.
He added that the story of Jesus’ birth shows that God “pitched His fragile tent” among people on earth, then questioned, “How can we not think of the tents in the Gaza Strip, exposed to rain, wind, and cold for many weeks?”
The Gaza Strip has been heavily damaged by Israeli bombings in a war lasting two years, triggered by a Hamas attack on Israel on 7 Oct 2023 GMT+7.
Now winter storms are worsening the dire situation for 2.1 million people in Gaza, nearly all displaced, with their homes damaged or destroyed. Relief agencies are urging Israel to allow more urgent supplies and tents into Gaza.
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Source:bbc