Pope Leo has urged Ukraine and Russia to find the courage to hold direct talks to end the war during his first Christmas remarks to crowds in St Peter's square.
He called for an end to conflicts around the world during his Urbi et Orbi address, which is traditionally delivered by the pontiff on Christmas Day to worshippers gathered in Vatican City.
Speaking about Ukraine, the Pope said: May the clamour of weapons cease, and may the parties involved, with the support and commitment of the international community, find the courage to engage in sincere, direct and respectful dialogue.
His plea comes as US-led negotiations on a deal to end the fighting continue.
The US has sought to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow to facilitate an agreement acceptable to both sides, but direct talks between the warring parties have not taken place during this latest diplomatic effort.
During an earlier Christmas Day sermon in St Peter's Basilica, Pope Leo lamented the plight of homeless people worldwide, affected by numerous wars. Fragile is the flesh of defenceless populations, tried by so many wars, ongoing or concluded, leaving behind rubble and open wounds, he stated.
He reflected on the story of the birth of Jesus, emphasizing God's presence among the world's people. Expressing concern for Palestinians, he questioned, How, then, can we not think of the tents in Gaza, exposed for weeks to rain, wind and cold?
Gaza has been severely impacted by Israeli bombardment, with winter storms exacerbating the suffering of its 2.1 million residents—almost all of whom are displaced or have their homes damaged or destroyed.
Aid agencies have urged Israel to allow more tents and essential supplies into Gaza. In response, Cogat, the Israeli military body overseeing Gaza's borders, claimed that almost 310,000 tents and tarpaulins had been delivered since the ceasefire in October.
