Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff, delivered a significant address on May 14, 2025, emphasizing his commitment to global peace and the Vatican's role as a mediator in international conflicts. Speaking to representatives of the Eastern Catholic Churches, many of which are located in conflict zones such as Ukraine, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq, Pope Leo XIV condemned the use of weapons and divisive narratives, stressing the need to restore peace and human dignity.

In his address, Pope Leo XIV called for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and endorsed a fragile truce between India and Pakistan. He also offered the Vatican's assistance in facilitating peace talks in Ukraine, following a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy is expected to attend Pope Leo's inauguration on May 18, potentially engaging in further peace discussions during his visit.

Born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is the first pope from North America and the first to hold Peruvian citizenship, having been naturalized in 2015. He is also the first pope from the Order of Saint Augustine. His papal name was inspired by Pope Leo XIII, known for addressing workers' rights during the Second Industrial Revolution. Pope Leo XIV believes that the ongoing Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly advances in artificial intelligence and robotics, poses new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.

Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21. His election was marked by white smoke from the Sistine Chapel, signaling the decision to the public. In his initial address, he called for peace and unity, signaling continuity with Pope Francis' policies, particularly on social justice and outreach to marginalized communities.

The address on May 14 was part of the Jubilee of the Eastern Churches, a significant event held from May 12 to 14, 2025, at St. Peter's Basilica. This event brought together faithful and representatives of the Eastern Catholic Churches, with their patriarchs and metropolitans, to celebrate their rich liturgical and spiritual traditions.

Pope Leo XIV's address underscores the Vatican's proactive role in global peace efforts, particularly in regions where Eastern Catholic communities are affected by conflict. His calls for ceasefires and mediation highlight the Church's commitment to human dignity and the alleviation of suffering. The Pope's engagement with world leaders, such as Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, indicates a willingness to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation on the international stage.

Eastern Catholic Churches are autonomous, self-governing churches in full communion with the Pope in Rome. They preserve their own liturgical rites, traditions, and disciplines. Many of these churches are located in regions experiencing conflict, including Ukraine, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq. The Jubilee of the Eastern Churches, held from May 12 to 14, 2025, was a significant event that brought together representatives and faithful from these communities to celebrate their heritage and unity within the Catholic Church.

Pope Leo XIV's address comes at a time of heightened tensions in various regions:

• Gaza: The region has experienced ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, with recent escalations leading to significant casualties and humanitarian concerns.

• India-Pakistan: The two nations have a history of conflict, particularly over the Kashmir region. Recent efforts have led to a fragile truce, which the Pope has endorsed.

• Ukraine: The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. The Vatican's offer to facilitate peace talks signifies a potential avenue for dialogue and resolution.

The Vatican has a history of mediating in international conflicts and advocating for peace. Pope Leo XIV's proactive stance aligns with this tradition but also marks a departure from his predecessor, Pope Francis, who maintained a more neutral position on certain conflicts, such as the one in Ukraine. Pope Leo XIV's explicit support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia's actions represent a significant shift in the Vatican's approach.

Pope Leo XIV's inaugural address sets a tone of active engagement and mediation in global conflicts, reflecting his commitment to peace and human dignity. As he prepares for his formal inauguration, the international community will be watching closely to see how his words translate into action.