Traditionally, the newly elected pontiff addressed the faithful from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and called for negotiations to achieve a «true, just, and lasting peace», as well as for the release of prisoners of war and the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. More than 100,000 people greeted him with applause and chanted the name of the new pontiff.
Leo XIV reminded of the 60 million victims of World War II and said he wants to continue the work of his predecessor Francis, who consistently called for «never again war». In addition, Leo XIV paid special attention to Ukraine. «I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people», — he said.
Earlier, in an interview with the Peruvian publication Semanario Expresión, the cleric called the invasion of Ukraine «imperialistic in its nature, in which Russia seeks to conquer territory to strengthen its power».
During his Sunday address, Leo XIV also touched upon the events in the Gaza Strip, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages captured by Hamas militants. Additionally, the pontiff welcomed the announced ceasefire between India and Pakistan.