Pope Leo renews call for Ukraine war to end

Pope Leo on Sunday urged an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the tragic toll on innocent civilians in both Ukraine and Russia. Speaking to worshippers gathered for the Angelus prayer, the pontiff described the "tragic incidents" as multiplying and causing an "ever-growing number of civilian victims, including children."

The Pope renewed his "heartfelt appeal for international humanitarian law to be respected and for attacks against civilian targets to cease on both sides." His plea comes amid continued fighting that has devastated the region and claimed thousands of lives.

“

Tragic incidents are multiplying, causing an ever-growing number of civilian victims, including children.

According to United Nations figures, more than 16,000 civilians have been killed in the nearly four-and-a-half years of fighting, with the vast majority being Ukrainian. The UN human rights office noted a significant increase in civilian injuries and deaths in Ukraine during the first half of the year, largely attributed to a rise in drone attacks. Both Ukraine and Russia have been employing drones in the conflict, leading to civilian casualties in occupied territories and within Russia itself.

“

I renew my heartfelt appeal for international humanitarian law to be respected and for attacks against civilian targets to cease on both sides.