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Pope Leo XIV peace appeals and critiques of global trends

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2026-09-30 05:01 UTC → 2026-09-30 10:02 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Pope Leo XIV has intensified his calls for peace and social reform, specifically regarding the Russia-Ukraine war and the rise of political extremism. During a four-day apostolic visit to France, the Pontiff described the conflict in Ukraine as a ‘new senseless slaughter’ and urged negotiators to demonstrate the courage to seek compromise. In Metz, the Pope emphasized that international law and multilateralism are the ‘best antidote to the desire for domination.’ He also honored EU founder Robert Schuman, advocating for European integration. ~~French President Emmanuel Macron responded by pledging ‘unwavering’ support for Ukraine.~~ Former European Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni described the Pope’s defense of the European Union’s Christian roots and its importance as ‘extraordinary,’ noting it served as a rebuttal to criticisms from Donald Trump. Addressing the political landscape, the Pope stated that the rise of far-right movements in Europe is not an ‘authentic expression of Christianity.’ ~~On his return flight to Rome, he expanded on this critique, noting that both Catholic and Protestant leaders in Germany have expressed similar views.~~ He suggested investigating whether there is a correlation between declining church attendance and the growth of extremist groups like Alternative for Germany (AfD), urging a return to Gospel values of compassion rather than division. Furthermore, the Pope criticized the trend of increased military spending, warning against the ‘illusion of rearmament’ and suggesting funds be redirected toward hunger, housing, and unemployment. He also condemned the use of God’s name to justify violence or oppression, calling such actions a ‘profanation of the divine name.’ rearmament.’ Expanding on his diplomatic ~~stance,~~ reach, the Pope ~~recently called on leaders~~ expressed deep concern regarding the resurgence of ~~Russia and Ukraine to engage~~ hostilities in ~~negotiations at a ‘common table.’ While acknowledging~~ the ~~Holy See lacks military or political leverage, he emphasized~~ Tigray and Amhara regions of Ethiopia. Following reports of attacks and the ~~Church’s moral authority~~ seizure of airports by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, he urged all parties to ~~advocate for human dignity. He stressed~~ choose dialogue, stating that ~~any peace agreement must be grounded in truth and permanent security guarantees~~ ‘conflict never solves problems, but only aggravates them.’ He called on the international community to ensure ~~it is not merely a pause before~~ humanitarian aid reaches those in need to prevent further ~~violence.~~ destruction.

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