Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace in Ukraine After Russian Attacks

Pope Leo XIV expressed his desire for peace in Ukraine on Sunday following recent Russian attacks on cities and civilian infrastructure. Speaking to pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square after the Angelus, the pope said he followed news of violent attacks that killed innocent people.

The pope's comments come as Russia has increased its use of missiles and drones against Ukraine. Recent strikes killed dozens in Kyiv and surrounding areas and cut electricity for hundreds of thousands of people in the Odesa region. Leo said he hopes current efforts to resume negotiations will lead to diplomacy.

The announcement coincided with the arrival of U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Kyiv. The envoys met with Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Saturday, Sept. 5.