Vatican City: Pope Leo has appealed for an immediate end to the renewed violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), calling on all armed groups to lay down their weapons and return to meaningful dialogue. Speaking at the conclusion of the Sunday Angelus in St. Peter’s Square, the Pontiff voiced deep alarm over the deteriorating security situation in eastern Congo and expressed solidarity with civilians caught in the conflict.
The Pope said he was “deeply concerned” by the resurgence of fighting in the region and urged all parties involved to abandon violence and engage in constructive discussions, while respecting the fragile peace efforts currently underway. He stressed that dialogue, not armed confrontation, remains the only path capable of restoring stability and dignity to the suffering population.
His appeal comes amid reports of a fresh and deadly offensive in Uvira, a key strategic city in eastern Congo. Regional authorities said the latest wave of violence has claimed more than 400 lives and forced nearly 200,000 people to flee their homes. The escalation occurred only days after the city reportedly fell under the control of the M23 rebel group, which is backed by Rwanda, despite a recent peace agreement facilitated by the United States.
Pope Leo assured the Congolese people of his closeness and prayers, reiterating the Church’s concern for victims of war, displacement, and humanitarian crisis. He emphasized that the suffering of innocent civilians must not be ignored and called on the international community to support efforts aimed at lasting peace.
Turning to matters of faith, the Holy Father also reflected on two beatifications held on Saturday, December 13, in Spain and France, honoring men and women who gave their lives for their Christian faith during periods of persecution.
In Jaén, Spain, Father Emanuele Izquierdo and 58 companions were beatified alongside Father Antonio Montañés Chiquero and 64 companions. Pope Leo recalled that all of them were killed out of hatred for the faith during the violent religious persecutions that swept Spain between 1936 and 1938.
The Pope also highlighted the beatification ceremony held in Paris, where Father Raymond Cayré, Gérard-Martin Cendrier of the Order of Friars Minor, seminarian Roger Vallé, layman Jean Mestre, and 46 companions were raised to the honors of the altar. These martyrs were killed between 1944 and 1945 during the Nazi occupation, likewise targeted for their fidelity to the Church.
Inviting the faithful to give thanks to God, Pope Leo described the newly beatified as “courageous witnesses of the Gospel,” who remained close to their people and steadfast in their faith even in the face of persecution and death. Their example, he said, continues to inspire the Church to stand firm for peace, justice, and human dignity in every age.