Pope Leo XIV urges dialogue and diplomacy amid renewed war threats in Ukraine and Middle East

On July 12, 2026 Pope Leo XIV led the Angelus prayer in the Piazza della Libertà at Castel Gandolfo, Italy, during his summer retreat. In the address he warned that “the winds of war are blowing again in the Middle East, in Ukraine and in many other parts of the world, sowing violence, terror and death and affecting many innocent people.” He called for a return to “the path of dialogue, encounter and diplomacy” as the only way to achieve a just and lasting peace where peoples can live reconciled, in mutual security and with respect for human dignity. The pontiff also marked the “Sunday of the Sea,” sending a message of solidarity to mariners, fishermen and port workers whose lives are strained by conflicts on maritime routes. He announced that general audiences will remain suspended until August 5, but he will continue limited activities, including a visit to the Vatican Library and the opening of the exhibition “Catastrophe and Wonder.” The Pope will remain in Castel Gandolfo until July 27.