The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The New York Times has reported that Pope Leo XIV used his first Christmas address as pontiff to urge world leaders to prioritize dialogue instead of war, calling for peace for victims of ongoing conflicts and those suffering from injustice, persecution and terrorism.
According to the report, Pope Leo delivered the message on
Thursday from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the same place where
he appeared publicly after his election in May. It was his first Christmas
speech since becoming pope and was closely watched for comparisons with his
predecessor, Pope Francis, who died in April at the age of 88.
In his address, Leo called for “peace and consolation for
the victims of all current wars in the world,” while also highlighting the
plight of refugees, victims of climate disasters, the unemployed and those
facing exploitation. Echoing concerns frequently raised by Francis, he stressed
the need to protect migrants and urged better care for those crossing the
American continent.
The pope also called for respectful dialogue in Europe as
leaders seek peace in Ukraine and appealed for dialogue in Latin America amid
escalating tensions, including a U.S. naval campaign in the region. Without
naming specific leaders, he urged those with political responsibility to work
for the common good rather than ideological or partisan interests.
Speaking to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square despite
drizzling rain, Leo emphasized personal responsibility, saying the world could
change if people stopped blaming others, acknowledged their own faults and
stood in solidarity with the weak and oppressed.
The New York Times noted that as the first pope from the
United States, Leo is being closely scrutinized for how he addresses global
politics and America’s role as a superpower. Analysts quoted by the newspaper
described him as more cautious and deliberate than Francis, even though he has
challenged some policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, particularly on
migration, environmental protection and international cooperation.
During Christmas Mass earlier the same day, the pope urged
worshippers not to ignore the suffering of refugees and displaced people,
including those living in makeshift shelters in Gaza and homeless communities
around the world.
Leo’s remarks came as the war in Ukraine continues and
efforts to secure a cease-fire remain stalled. Earlier in the week, he
expressed sadness that Russia had refused a request for a Christmas cease-fire,
according to the report.
Analysts told the New York Times that the pope’s comments
reflect a careful balancing act, aiming to promote moral principles and
dialogue without being perceived as openly aligned against specific political
leaders or governments.
