Pope Leo XIV expresses solidarity with Nusa Tenggara Timur earthquake victims

Pope Leo XIV has expressed spiritual solidarity and condolences following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur, on August 15, 2026. In a telegram addressed to the Archbishop of Ende, Mgr Paulus Budi Kleden, the Pope expressed deep concern for those injured and those who have lost their homes.

The disaster has caused significant destruction, with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reporting that over 900 houses were damaged and 450 others were affected. Additionally, 167 public facilities, including schools, health centers, and churches, have been rendered unusable. The earthquake has forced thousands of residents to flee to temporary shelters.

The Pope, through a message signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, encouraged both religious authorities and the government to continue providing humanitarian assistance. He also offered prayers for the deceased, the recovery workers, and the strength of the affected communities.