Pope Leo addressed a press conference aboard his aircraft bound for Rome on Monday, after a four‑day visit to France. He reminded leaders that the 1.4‑billion‑member Catholic Church has a duty to champion peace and human dignity.
The pontiff blasted nations that now speak of nuclear weapons and escalating wars, warning that such rhetoric fuels a destructive cycle. He urged that wars no longer make sense in a world where lives cost more in loss than in investment.
In his remarks, Leo called for an immediate sit‑down between Russia and Ukraine, inviting them and other global actors to engage in constructive dialogue. He echoed his earlier speech in Metz, where he outlined a vision for a Europe that prioritizes health, education, and diplomacy.
The pope concluded that European leaders must be ready to relinquish hard‑line positions to achieve lasting peace. His appeal signals a potential shift in diplomatic strategy as nations consider new avenues for conflict resolution.