Pope Leo XIV: War only begets more war, causes immense suffering

Following the recitation of the Angelus prayer on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV expressed his concern over the ongoing violence in Sudan, Ukraine, and Russia. He called for the conversion “of those who sow violence” and an end to “an ever-growing number of civilian casualties.”

According to Pope Leo XIV, it is high time to stop the spiral of violence and make room for diplomacy.

The pope touched on the war between Ukraine and Russia, lamenting the escalation of violence as casualties continue to rise.

“These incidents are occurring one after another; indeed, they are multiplying, resulting in ever-increasing numbers of civilian victims, including children,” he said.

In light of the rise in attacks, Leo renewed his call for respect for international humanitarian law.

“In the face of so much anguish, I renew my heartfelt appeal for humanitarian law to be respected and for both sides to cease attacks on civilian targets,” Leo said.

“War only begets more war and causes immense suffering,” he said.