Pope Leo XIV made a heartfelt appeal for “no more war” during his inaugural Sunday message to tens of thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square. This message came after his election as the pontiff on May 8, marking a significant moment in history as he became the first U.S.-born pope.

Speaking in fluent Italian, Leo called for an “authentic and lasting peace” in Ukraine, urging for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas. His words resonated with many, as the crowd erupted in applause amidst the solemnity of his message.

The newly elected pontiff highlighted the recent fragile ceasefire between India and Pakistan, expressing hope that it could pave the way for a durable agreement between the two nuclear-armed nations. He emphasized the ongoing conflicts around the globe, noting, “But there are so many other conflicts in the world!”

Pope Leo XIV echoed the sentiments of his predecessor, Pope Francis, regarding the devastating impacts of war, recalling the recent 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, which claimed around 60 million lives. He emphasized that the world is currently witnessing a “dramatic scenario of a Third World War being fought piecemeal.”

Expressing compassion for the “beloved people of Ukraine,” Pope Leo called for direct negotiations to reach a just and enduring peace amidst the ongoing turmoil. He also conveyed his profound sadness over the violence in Gaza, urging immediate ceasefire and humanitarian assistance.

As he addressed the public from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the former Cardinal Robert Prevost, who previously served as a missionary in Peru, underlined the urgent need for global unity against conflict, framing his message as a prayer for divine intervention to bless the world with the “miracle of peace.”