Pope Francis has renewed his call for peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, urging an end to the ongoing conflict sparked by Russia’s invasion in 2022. In his Christmas Day address, the Pope emphasized the need for “boldness [to] open the door” to dialogue to achieve a “just and lasting peace.”
This appeal comes amidst reports of a significant Russian assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, with Ukraine citing the involvement of at least 184 missiles and drones. Earlier this year, Ukraine had dismissed the Pope’s suggestions for negotiations, including his call for Kyiv to “raise the white flag.”
Addressing thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis urged, “May the sound of arms be silenced in war-torn Ukraine,” and called for all nations to become “pilgrims of hope” to quell violence and bridge divisions.
He reiterated his Christmas message from the previous year by advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The Pope expressed concern over the plight of Christian communities in Israel and Palestine, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian crisis remains dire.
The Gaza conflict escalated following a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and the kidnapping of 251 more. According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli military actions have led to over 45,000 Palestinian fatalities.
Recently, Pope Francis faced backlash for labeling Israel’s military response as “cruelty,” which drew a strong rebuke from Israeli officials. His concerns also extended to Christian communities in Lebanon and Syria, where the aftermath of political upheaval has left minorities fearing for their future. Reports indicate a drastic decline in Syria’s Christian population since the onset of the civil war in 2011, raising apprehensions about their safety as Islamist factions gain ground.
