Pope Leo XIV appeals for worldwide Christmas ceasefire, laments rejection of truce call
Pope Leo XIV has renewed a passionate appeal for a global cessation of hostilities on Christmas Day, urging world leaders and parties to ongoing conflicts to observe at least 24 hours of peace in honour of the Christian celebration.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday at his residence in Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, the pontiff said the continued violence in different parts of the world, particularly the war in Ukraine, was a source of deep sorrow to him.
He expressed disappointment over reports that Russia had turned down a proposal for a temporary truce during the Christmas period.
“I am once again appealing to all people of good will to observe a day of peace, at least on the feast marking the birth of our Saviour,” Pope Leo said.
He added that the rejection of a truce request by Russia was especially troubling, noting that it dimmed hopes for a brief humanitarian pause in the fighting.
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and has consistently dismissed calls for ceasefires, arguing that any pause in hostilities would favour Ukrainian forces militarily.
The conflict has since dragged on with heavy casualties, widespread destruction and repeated diplomatic efforts failing to secure a lasting settlement.
The pope broadened his message beyond Ukraine, stressing that his call applied to all conflicts around the world.
He voiced hope that global leaders would heed the appeal and allow a full day without violence, describing such a gesture as a powerful symbol of humanity and compassion.
Meanwhile, fighting in eastern Ukraine continued to intensify. On Tuesday, Ukrainian forces withdrew from a town in the east following fierce clashes with Russian troops.
Russian strikes reportedly killed at least three civilians and disrupted electricity supplies to thousands of people as winter temperatures dropped, compounding the humanitarian crisis.
There were no clear signs of progress toward peace, despite recent diplomatic activity.
Senior negotiators from both Russia and Ukraine held separate talks with United States officials in Miami last weekend, but no breakthrough was announced in efforts to end nearly four years of conflict.
Earlier this month, Pope Leo met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reaffirming the Vatican’s commitment to supporting dialogue and peace initiatives.
When asked whether he would accept an invitation to visit Ukraine, the pope said he hoped to do so, while cautioning that it was too early to determine when such a visit could take place.
He also warned that any attempt to resolve the war without strong European diplomatic involvement would be unrealistic.
In addition, he expressed concern that a proposed peace plan by US President Donald Trump could significantly alter long-standing transatlantic relations.
Pope Leo’s appeal comes as Christmas approaches, with the Vatican once again positioning itself as a moral voice calling for restraint, dialogue and compassion amid ongoing global conflicts.
