Pope calls for ‘no more war’ during first papal prayer

Pope Leo XIV delivered his initial Regina Coeli from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on Sunday, May 11, 2025. The new American pope, following in the footsteps of Pope Francis, urged global leaders to put an end to war and violence worldwide.

In his first papal prayer in Rome, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of world peace and called for an end to conflicts around the world. He expressed his sorrow over the enduring conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in numerous casualties since the latest outbreak of violence in October 2023.

Pope Leo also conveyed his solidarity with the suffering Ukrainian people. His remarks coincided with discussions between Ukraine and Russia regarding a potential 30-day ceasefire, although Russian President Vladimir Putin’s response to the proposed terms remains uncertain.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated his readiness to personally meet with Putin in Turkey to initiate direct negotiations aimed at resolving the ongoing war. The pope further advocated for lasting peace in various regions, including the conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, Israel and Hamas, as well as India and Pakistan.

Addressing a crowd gathered at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV reiterated the urgent plea for “no more war,” highlighting the devastating impact of conflicts on humanity. His first prayer as the new pontiff coincided with the unveiling of the papal apartment in Vatican City, previously sealed after the passing of Pope Francis on April 21st. Robert Prevost, hailing from Chicago, made history by becoming the first American pope on May 8th, assuming the papal name Leo XIV.