Pope Leo XIV renewed his appeal for a global truce on Christmas Day, expressing deep sadness that Russia had “apparently rejected” a request for a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Speaking at his residence near Rome, the pontiff urged people of goodwill to observe at least 24 hours of peace to honor the birth of Christ.
Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February 2022, has repeatedly dismissed ceasefire calls, saying they would benefit Kyiv militarily.
The appeal came as fighting continued in eastern Ukraine, where Russian strikes killed civilians, forced troop withdrawals, and cut power to thousands during freezing temperatures.
Pope Leo, who met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier this month, warned that any peace effort without European diplomatic involvement was unrealistic and could strain transatlantic ties.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 24, 2025
