Pope Leo XIV called on Tuesday for a 24-hour global ceasefire over Christmas, with a particular focus on the war between Russia and Ukraine.
Speaking to reporters as he left his residence in the town of Castel Gandolfo near Rome for the Vatican, the pope said he was deeply saddened by Moscow’s refusal to agree to a Christmas truce.
“What truly pains me is Russia’s rejection of a ceasefire during Christmas,” he said, urging all sides to uphold the values of peace and humanity during the holiday season.