Pope Leo XIV calls for concessions for peace in Ukraine

Pope Leo XIV. Photo: rte.ie

Pope Leo XIV during a speech before European leaders in Metz, France, called on negotiators to show courage and make concessions for the sake of achieving peace in Ukraine, reports Reuters.

The Pontiff expressed deep sorrow over the continuation of hostilities on the European continent. "War has returned even to Europe – a new senseless slaughter that claims countless civilian lives every day," stated the head of the Catholic Church.

Calling on the parties to settle the conflict, the Pontiff stressed the need for mutual compromises. "We need to show courage in negotiations and be ready to give up certain positions for the higher good of peace," Pope Leo XIV urged the participants of the diplomatic process.

The head of the Vatican also spoke out against the growth of military spending by European countries, warning leaders against attempts to solve the problem by building up armaments. "We must also guard ourselves against the illusion that rearmament is the answer. Today we must ask ourselves: are we truly making creative efforts to promote peace throughout the world, or are we simply trying to hold back the tide of war and better prepare for the wars we assume are still ahead?"

Separately, the head of the Catholic Church drew attention to the crisis of trust in international relations and called on European states to remain faithful to the principles of the rule of law. "Today, relations between people and states are becoming increasingly uncivilized. The value of a restrained word is rejected; instead, people boast of lies and deception."

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Pope's envoy Cardinal Zuppi will visit Russia to discuss the war in Ukraine.

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