Pope Leo XIV urges ceasefire in Sudan, condemns civilian toll in Russia-Ukraine war

Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV used his weekly Angelus address on Sunday to voice deep concern over the continuing violence in Sudan, Ukraine, and Russia, urging world leaders to prioritise diplomacy and protect civilians.

Speaking from the window of his study in the Apostolic Palace, the Pope specifically referenced the besieged city of El-Obeid in Sudan. He expressed his spiritual closeness to the Sudanese people and renewed his call for authorities to establish humanitarian corridors for civilians trapped by the fighting.

"I urge the international community to support efforts aimed at bringing about an immediate ceasefire," the Pope said, adding a prayer that the Lord would "convert the hearts of those who sow violence."

Turning to the conflict in Eastern Europe, the Pope noted the "painful reports" of innocent people being killed and injured in both Ukraine and Russia. He highlighted the rising number of civilian casualties, including children, and offered his thoughts to the families of victims and all those suffering.

Leo XIV reiterated his appeal for international humanitarian law to be respected and for both sides to stop targeting civilians. "War only breeds more war and causes enormous suffering," he warned. "It is time to halt the spiral of violence and make way for diplomacy and dialogue to pave the way for peace."

The address was delivered to a large crowd gathered in St Peter's Square, marking another instance of the Pope using his public platform to advocate for peace in active conflict zones.