Pope calls for global ceasefire over Christmas holidays
During the Angelus prayer at the Vatican, Pope Francis called for a global ceasefire over the Christmas holidays, emphasizing the need for peace and dialogue.
Pope Francis, addressing the faithful gathered in St. Peter's Square, appealed for a ceasefire on all war fronts until Christmas. In his speech, he highlighted the dire situation of civilians in conflict zones such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and South Sudan and called for an end to the violence.
Pope Francis appeals for ceasefire. "Let us keep praying"
During the Angelus prayer, the Pope addressed international leaders, emphasizing that diplomacy and dialogue are the only paths to lasting peace. His support was directed not only to countries involved in conflicts but also to their leaders, including those of Russia and Ukraine, with a focus on openness to peace proposals.
Let us continue to pray for peace, in tormented Ukraine, in the Middle East – Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, and now Syria – in Myanmar, in Sudan, and wherever people suffer from war and violence. I appeal to Governments and the International Community, that a ceasefire may be reached on all war fronts by the Christmas celebrations - said Pope Francis.
Francis renewed his call for a global ceasefire, noting that peace is key to overcoming the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and conflicts. He urged support for peace initiatives and the provision of humanitarian aid, essential for affected communities. His words also addressed the situation on the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
The Pope emphasized that war is an illusion and a failure, and its consequences are tragic for all involved. He drew attention to the social and humanitarian consequences of conflicts, appealing for solutions based on respect for life and state sovereignty, and an end to hatred and revenge that deepen the suffering of populations.
