On his first-ever Regina Caeli appearance, Pope Leo XIV stood on the central loggia of St Peter’s Basilica Sunday and delivered a powerful appeal for peace, echoing the enduring message of his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Before a sea of faithful in St Peter’s Square and countless more watching around the world, the newly elected pontiff raised his voice against war, declaring: “In today’s dramatic context of a third world war fought piecemeal… I too appeal to the powerful of the world by repeating these ever-relevant words: Never again war!”

A cry for peace in Ukraine and Gaza

Reflecting on the sombre anniversary of the end of World War II – 80 years ago this week, Pope Leo recalled the devastating toll of that conflict: “The immense tragedy of the Second World War, which ended 80 years ago on May 8, caused 60 million deaths. And yet, we continue to witness violence and bloodshed across the globe.”

He then turned his attention to the current crises gripping humanity.

Speaking with deep compassion, he said: “I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people. May every effort be made to reach a true, just, and lasting peace as soon as possible. May all prisoners be freed, and may the children be returned to their families.”

Turning to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, Pope Leo expressed profound sorrow: “I am deeply pained by what is happening,” he said. “Let the fighting cease immediately. Let humanitarian aid be provided to the exhausted civilian population. And may all hostages be released.”

Hope for India-Pakistan ceasefire

The Pope welcomed the recent agreement between India and Pakistan to halt hostilities following days of military escalation sparked by the Pahalgam terror attack.

“I hope that, through the upcoming negotiations, a lasting agreement may soon be reached,” he said, while also acknowledging the many other unresolved conflicts worldwide.

In closing, Pope Leo turned to the Virgin Mary, invoking her as the Queen of Peace: “To her Immaculate Heart I entrust my heartfelt appeal, so that she may present it to the Lord Jesus and obtain for us the miracle of peace.”

This was Pope Leo XIV’s first public appearance before the faithful since his election earlier this week. Born Robert Prevost in Chicago, he is the first American pope and the 267th successor of St Peter. His papacy begins at a time of global unrest, making his call for peace both timely and urgent.

As the world watches, Pope Leo’s message of unity, justice, and nonviolence sets a clear tone for his leadership of the Catholic Church.