Pope calls for end to wars in Ukraine and Gaza

LONDON

The pope has called for an end to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, urging world leaders to prioritize dialogue over violence.

“The Holy See cannot stop them ... but we are working, let’s say, on ‘soft diplomacy,’ always inviting, encouraging the pursuit of nonviolence through dialogue and seeking solutions – because these problems cannot be solved by war,” Pope Leo said on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters in Castel Gandolfo, where he is spending part of his summer break, the pontiff addressed talks to end the war in Ukraine and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Asked about Friday's summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, the pontiff said: “We must always seek a ceasefire. The violence, the many deaths, must stop. Let’s see how they can come to an agreement. Because after all this time, what is the purpose of war? We must always seek dialogue, diplomatic efforts, not violence, not weapons.”

He also expressed deep concern over the situation in Gaza, where fighting and blockade have left many without food.

“The humanitarian crisis must be resolved. We cannot go on like this. We know the violence of terrorism, and we honor the many who have died, as well as the hostages — they must be freed. But we must also think of the many who are dying of hunger.”

The pope described these goals as part of the Holy See’s “soft diplomacy” – an approach he says is essential for issues that “cannot be resolved through war.”