Pope Leo XIV Offers to Mediate Peace Talks Amid Global Conflicts

In a powerful appeal for global unity, newly elected Pope Leo XIV has offered to mediate peace talks between world leaders, urging an end to the many ongoing conflicts devastating regions across the globe. “For my part, I will make every effort so that this peace may prevail,” the pontiff said on Wednesday during a speech at the Vatican.

Speaking to members of the Eastern Catholic Churches in the packed Paul VI Hall, Pope Leo highlighted the suffering caused by violence from the Holy Land to Ukraine, Lebanon to Syria, Tigray to the Caucasus. He called on Christians in conflict-ridden areas, particularly in the Middle East, to stand strong and not abandon their homelands.

“Who better than you can sing a song of hope even amid the abyss of violence?” he asked. “The peoples of our world desire peace. And to their leaders, I appeal with all my heart: let us meet, let us talk, let us negotiate!”

Pope Leo emphasized the Holy See’s readiness to facilitate dialogue between warring nations. “The Vatican is always willing to bring enemies face to face, so that people everywhere may once more find hope and reclaim the dignity of peace,” he said.

This heartfelt plea marks a continuation of Pope Leo’s peace-centered message since assuming office last week, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21 at age 88. His inauguration is scheduled for Sunday, with key global leaders including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance expected to attend.

Wednesday’s address was part of a pre-arranged event ahead of the 2025 Jubilee Holy Year, focusing on the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches spread across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa.

Pope Leo praised Christians who have chosen to stay in their native lands despite hardships, calling them “sowers of peace.” He urged governments to ensure that Christians can live securely with their full rights intact.

“Christians must be given the opportunity, not just in words, to remain in their native lands with the dignity and safety they deserve,” he said. “Please, let us strive for this!”