Pope Leo has urged Ukraine and Russia to demonstrate "courage" by holding direct conversations to bring an end to the war, during his first Christmas speech in St Peter’s Square. In his traditional Urbi et Orbi message on Christmas Day, he called for an end to conflicts happening all over the world.
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He specifically mentioned Ukraine, asking for an immediate stop to the fighting and encouraging both sides to agree to serious, in-person talks. His comments come as U.S.-led efforts continue to push for a ceasefire deal between Kyiv and Moscow.
Even though the United States has been trying to help the two sides talk to each other, recent diplomatic efforts have not yet included direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Earlier in the day, during Christmas Mass at St Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo also expressed worry about homeless people around the world and sadness over the damage caused by ongoing wars.