Pope Leo XIV Welcomes India-Pakistan Ceasefire, Urges Global Peace

Vatican City – In his first Sunday address, Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected American-born pontiff, made a heartfelt appeal for peace across the world. Speaking from the Vatican, he welcomed the ceasefire between India and Pakistan announced on May 10 and expressed hope that it would pave the way for a lasting resolution between the two nations.

“I am pleased with the declaration of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan,” the Pope said. “I hope that through upcoming talks, a lasting and meaningful settlement can be reached.”

The Pope also addressed other ongoing global conflicts, specifically mentioning Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. “I carry in my heart the suffering of the dear Ukrainian people,” he said, calling for a “speedy, authentic, just, and lasting peace” in the region. He also urged the release of prisoners and the reunification of children with their families.

Regarding the crisis in Gaza, Pope Leo XIV expressed deep sorrow over the continued violence. “I am deeply saddened by what is happening in the Gaza Strip,” he said. “Ceasefire immediately! Let humanitarian aid be delivered to the exhausted civilians, and let all hostages be freed.”

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, was elected as the first-ever U.S.-born pope on Thursday. His election has generated excitement and pride among American Catholics, according to CNN.

In his first formal meeting with cardinals, which opened with a standing ovation, the Pope revealed the reason behind his choice of papal name. He said he was inspired by Pope Leo XIII, known for addressing “the social question” during the Industrial Revolution and for his influential 1891 encyclical Rerum Novarum, which defended workers’ rights and social justice.

“In our time,” Pope Leo XIV said, “the Church continues to offer the treasure of its social teaching in response to a new industrial revolution and the rapid developments in artificial intelligence, which present new challenges to human dignity, justice, and labour.”

Wearing the traditional white papal robe, Pope Leo XIV signaled a continuation of Pope Francis’ legacy, particularly his emphasis on reform, peace, and social justice. His first address set a clear tone that the new papacy would actively engage with modern global challenges while maintaining the Church’s long-standing commitment to the vulnerable and oppressed.

Team Maverick.