Pope Leo XIV appealed for peace in Ukraine on Sunday, noting “painful reports” of innocent people killed and injured in both Ukraine and Russia.
“Tragic incidents continue,” Leo said, “indeed, they are multiplying, resulting in ever-increasing civilian casualties, including children.”
The latest reports say Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and civilian-populated areas in several Ukrainian cities killed at least a dozen people and wounded dozens more overnight.
Russia’s official TASS news agency reported three civilians killed by Ukrainian drone attacks in the Russian city of Novgorod.
The pope made his appeal in remarks to pilgrims and tourists following the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday in St. Peter’s Square.
The pontiff said he stands “with the families of the victims, the injured, and all those suffering as a result of the ongoing conflict.”
“In the face of such pain,” Leo said, “I renew my heartfelt appeal for respect for humanitarian law and for both sides to cease attacks on civilian targets.”
“War only begets more war and causes enormous suffering,” the pontiff said.
“It is time to halt the spiral of violence,” the pope said, “and make room for diplomacy and dialogue to pave the way for peace.”
Also on Sunday, the pontiff appealed for peace in war-torn Sudan, calling for “immediate cease-fire” and urging the international community to action in favor of peace.
RELATED: Pope appeals for peace in Sudan as siege of key city intensifies
Speaking in English, the pontiff said he continues “to follow with concern the tragic situation in Sudan, especially in the city of el-Obeid,” where a months-long siege has intensified in recent weeks.
“In expressing my spiritual closeness to all the people of the nation,” Leo said, “I renew my appeal to those in authority to guarantee humanitarian corridors for the civilian population.”
“At the same time,” the pontiff said, “I urge the international community to support efforts aimed at bringing about an immediate cease-fire.”
The conflict in Sudan is a direct cause of a humanitarian crisis international observers and aid workers consider the worst on the planet, with more than 14 million people driven from their homes and threatened daily with death by disease, starvation, exposure, or violence.
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