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Pope Leo says civilians in Ukraine are suffering, calls for war to end

Pope Leo condemns ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine, warning of severe risks to civilians amid harsh winter, and calls for renewed efforts to end the conflict.

Reuters

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January 25, 2026

Pope Leo says civilians in Ukraine are suffering, calls for war to end

Pope Leo XIV speaks during the weekly general audience at the Paul VI hall at the Vatican, January 21, 2026.

Remo Casilli/Reuters

Pope Leo on Sunday said ongoing Russian attacks against Ukraine were leaving civilians in the country exposed to the cold of winter, and called for an end to the conflict.


"The protracted hostilities ... have increasingly serious implications for civilians," Pope Leo said after his weekly Angelus prayer.


"I urge everyone to intensify their efforts to end this war."


-Valentina Za/Reuters

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