24.12.2025 08:45
Pope Leo XIII called for a 24-hour ceasefire due to the Russia-Ukraine War and the Christmas celebrations worldwide. The Pope urged that prayers for peace be offered on the day Christmas is celebrated.
Vatican State President Pope Leo XIII called for a 24-hour ceasefire worldwide due to the Christmas holiday, especially in the context of the Russia-Ukraine War. The Pope answered questions from journalists waiting for him as he left his residence in Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, where he spent his weekly rest, to head to the Vatican last night.
"LET THERE BE A 24-HOUR CEASEFIRE RESPECTED AROUND THE WORLD"
When asked if he had a message before the Christmas holiday, during which Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, Pope Leo XIII said, "One of the things that truly saddens me is Russia's rejection of the Christmas ceasefire. I once again appeal to all good-willed people: At least on this day when the birth of Jesus is celebrated, let there be a 24-hour ceasefire respected in Ukraine and around the world."
"THEY ARE TRYING TO CELEBRATE A HOLIDAY IN THE MIDST OF A VERY FRAGILE SITUATION IN GAZA"
In response to a question about the situation in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza, the Pope recalled that Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, visited Gaza in recent days and mentioned that he had spoken on the phone with Father Gabriel Romanelli of the Holy Family Church in Gaza City about an hour ago. The Pope pointed to the ceasefire and peace plan that came into effect in October in Gaza, stating, "They are trying to celebrate a holiday in the midst of a very fragile situation. We hope that the peace agreement will make progress."