Pope Leo XIV expressed deep sorrow on Tuesday over Russia’s apparent refusal of a Christmas truce, calling for a global pause in hostilities on the holiday. Speaking from his residence in Castel Gandolfo near Rome, the pontiff urged “all people of goodwill” to honor at least one day of peace in celebration of the birth of Christ.
“The fact that Russia has seemingly declined this request is a source of great sadness for me,” Leo said. Highlighting the broader context of global conflicts, he added, “I hope that people will listen, and that the world can experience 24 hours of peace.”
The statement comes as Ukraine withdrew troops from a town in the east following intense clashes with Russian forces, amid ongoing attacks that have killed civilians and left thousands without electricity during freezing winter conditions.
Recent attempts at diplomatic talks—including meetings in Miami last weekend between top Russian and Ukrainian officials and U.S. representatives—have yet to yield a breakthrough.
Earlier this month, Pope Leo met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. While he expressed hope that he might visit Ukraine, he noted that a timeline for such a trip is uncertain.
The pope also emphasized the importance of European involvement in efforts to secure peace, describing attempts to resolve the conflict without it as “unrealistic.”
He cautioned that U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed peace plan could lead to significant shifts in the transatlantic alliance.
