Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has called for an immediate end to violence in Sudan, Ukraine and Russia, urging political leaders and the international community to choose diplomacy and dialogue instead of allowing conflicts to deepen the suffering of civilians.
Speaking after the Angelus prayer on Sunday, the Pope expressed particular concern about the worsening humanitarian situation in Sudan, especially in the city of el Obeid. He said he was spiritually close to the people affected by the conflict and appealed to those in authority to protect civilians caught in the fighting.
The Pope called for humanitarian corridors to be opened so that civilians can receive food, water, medicine and other essential supplies. He also urged the international community to support efforts aimed at securing an immediate ceasefire.
Pope Leo asked people to pray for those suffering because of the violence. He also called for a change of heart among those responsible for continuing the conflict, asking God to help bring peace to a country that has endured years of war and displacement.
The situation in el Obeid has raised growing concern among humanitarian organisations and international observers. The city, located in North Kordofan, has strategic importance because it lies along an important route connecting central Sudan with the western Darfur region.
Months of fighting and siege conditions have left many people struggling to find food, clean water and medical supplies. Reports have also raised concerns about continuing drone attacks and an increase in sexual violence. The worsening conditions have created fears that el Obeid could become the site of another major humanitarian disaster.
Sudan has been facing a devastating conflict for more than three years. Millions of people have been forced from their homes, while hunger and a lack of basic services continue to affect communities across the country. More than 14 million people have been displaced since the conflict began.
Pope Leo also used his Angelus address to speak about the continuing war involving Ukraine and Russia. He expressed his sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and the growing number of people being wounded in the conflict.
The Pope said he stands with the families of those who have been killed, people who have been injured and everyone suffering because of the war. He urged all sides to respect international humanitarian law and called for an end to attacks that place civilians in danger.
His message was a strong appeal for a different approach to the conflict. Pope Leo warned that violence can create more violence and deepen suffering rather than bring a lasting solution.
He called on the international community and those involved in the fighting to stop the cycle of attacks and create space for diplomatic efforts. Dialogue, he said, should be used to search for a path towards peace.
The Pope's comments came as he continued to use his weekly Angelus address to highlight conflicts and humanitarian crises around the world. His appeal reflected the Vatican's repeated calls for the protection of civilians and peaceful efforts to resolve international disputes.
During the same address, Pope Leo also turned his attention to young people gathered in St Peter's Square. He welcomed the presence of youth groups who had chosen to spend part of their holidays taking part in activities focused on personal growth, friendship and community.
The Pope recalled his meeting with young people during a Franciscan gathering in Assisi on August 6. He encouraged young people to use the example of the saints as a source of inspiration in their daily lives.
He mentioned Saint Dominic, Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, Saint Lawrence and Saint Clare of Assisi as examples of people who lived their faith with courage and commitment.
Pope Leo encouraged the young people to learn from these figures and allow their lives to inspire them. His message to them was one of hope, faith and service at a time when many parts of the world continue to face war and uncertainty.
Pope's Angelus appeal brought together two important themes, the urgent need to protect people affected by war and the importance of giving younger generations a message of hope. His call for humanitarian assistance, an end to attacks on civilians and renewed diplomacy underlined his continuing message that peace must be pursued through dialogue rather than violence.