Pope Francis Calls for Peace in Ukraine: Address with the Blessing Urbi et Orbi.

According to ТСН: Pope Francis Leo XIV delivered a Christmas message to the nations, calling for peace and support for those suffering due to wars, poverty, injustice, and natural disasters.

“Let us especially pray for the suffering Ukrainian people: may the clamor of arms cease, and may the involved parties, supported by the international community, find the courage to engage in sincere, direct, and respectful dialogue,” emphasized the Holy Father during his address from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City.

The morning Holy Mass was presided over by the Pope himself, and by noon, St. Peter's Square was filled with pilgrims. He made an unexpected tour of the square in a panoramic vehicle, greeting and blessing those present.

Christmas Message and Calls for Peace

At noon, the Pope delivered a Christmas message, quoting St. Leo the Great: “The Lord's Christmas is the Christmas of peace.” He emphasized that the path to peace is the responsibility of everyone, calling for recognition of one's sins, solidarity with the weakest, and promotion of justice.

The Holy Father also extended greetings to all Christians, especially those living in the Middle East, addressing requests for peace and stability for Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, and Syria. He called for prayers for the victims of wars in Sudan, South Sudan, Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as for those affected by natural disasters in South Asia and Oceania.

“In a few days, the Jubilee year will end. The Holy Doors will close, but Christ, our hope, always remains with us!” concluded the Pope, emphasizing that the Lord's Christmas is the Christmas of peace.

After his address, Leo XIV offered festive wishes in ten languages, including Ukrainian, and proclaimed the solemn blessing Urbi et Orbi, which grants the opportunity to receive a plenary indulgence.

This year's Christmas message from Pope Francis particularly highlights global challenges and the importance of international dialogue. By calling for peace and justice, the Pope draws attention to the suffering of people around the world, encouraging everyone to take action in support of those in greatest need. This message, marked by hope and a call for unity, gains special significance in times of global conflicts and uncertainty.