Pope Leo XIV Calls for Direct Negotiations Between Russia and Ukraine
In his first “Urbi et Orbi” blessing as Pope, Leo XIV urged Russia and Ukraine to have the “courage” to negotiate directly for an end to the war. This call comes as Ukraine, invaded by Russia since February 2022, awaits Moscow’s response to the updated U.S. plan for conflict resolution.
Background on the Conflict
- Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
- The most recent direct talks occurred half a year ago without achieving any ceasefire.
- The U.S. plan for Ukraine proposes freezing the frontline and establishing demilitarized zones.
Pope’s Focus on Humanitarian Crises
Beyond the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Pope Leo XIV emphasized other pressing humanitarian issues during his Christmas blessing.
Situation in Gaza
The Pope highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza following a two-year war between Hamás and Israel, which left tens of thousands dead and displaced many.
- He referred to the “tents of Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind, and cold.”
- Cited hundreds of thousands of Gazans facing harsh winter conditions.
Addressing America Latina and Migrants
Pope Leo XIV also spoke about America Latina’s leaders and migrants traversing the American continent in search of better lives.
- He urged political leaders in America Latina to prioritize dialogue for the common good over ideological and partisan exclusions.
- Specifically mentioned Haiti, calling for an end to all forms of violence and progress toward peace and reconciliation.
Regional Developments and Natural Disasters
The Pope’s message also touched on recent natural disasters and political events worldwide.
Sumatra Floods
In Indonesia’s Sumatra, devastated by floods four weeks ago that claimed over a thousand lives and left at least 170 missing, churches provided shelter to their congregants, many still residing in refugees.
California Flood Threat
In California, Los Angeles and southern parts of the state face sudden flood risks. Authorities issued immediate evacuation orders for hundreds of homes, fearing the equivalent of several months’ worth of rain in upcoming days.
Turkey’s Anti-Terrorism Measures
Turkish authorities detained 115 suspected members of the Islamic State group, allegedly planning attacks during end-of-year celebrations, according to the Istanbul prosecutor’s office.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Pope Leo XIV? Elected as the head of the Catholic Church in May, he delivered his first Midnight Mass and sent a message of “charity and hope” on Christmas Eve.
- What is the current state of the Russia-Ukraine conflict? Ukraine awaits Moscow’s response to the updated U.S. plan for conflict resolution, with previous direct talks failing to achieve a ceasefire.
- What humanitarian crises did Pope Leo XIV address? He highlighted the dire situation in Gaza post-war and the ongoing struggles of migrants in America Latina.
- What natural disasters and political events did the Pope mention? He referenced floods in Sumatra, Indonesia; flood threats in California; and Turkey’s anti-terrorism measures.
