Pope Leo called for courage, compromise and renewed negotiations to secure peace in Europe as Russia’s war in Ukraine continues. Speaking to European leaders in Metz, France, the pontiff said negotiators should be prepared to give up some positions for the broader goal of peace.The Pope Leo Ukraine peace appeal came during the final stage of his four-day visit to France. Without directly naming Ukraine in his Metz remarks, Leo lamented the return of war to Europe and highlighted the continuing civilian deaths caused by conflict. His comments came as diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war remain stalled.

Leo also questioned Europe’s increasing military expenditure. He warned against assuming that rearmament alone could provide an answer to conflict and urged governments to consider whether enough creative diplomatic efforts were being made to advance global peace. European military spending recorded its largest annual increase since the Cold War last year.The pope’s remarks followed a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and US President Donald Trump in New York, where they discussed possible ways to end the war. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, and Reuters reported that neither Moscow nor Kyiv has shown willingness to concede territory.

Pope Leo Backs Multicultural Europe And Migrant Integration

Pope Leo outlined a broader vision for Europe based on integration, dialogue and respect for the rule of law, urging countries to welcome migrants and provide legal, safe immigration pathways. He also promoted multiculturalism while highlighting Europe’s Christian roots. Leo said Europe had historically progressed by drawing on its past while renewing itself through encounters with others. His remarks connected peace, migration and European cooperation, emphasizing dialogue and mutual respect in addressing the continent’s political and humanitarian challenges.