During his Regina Coeli address following Mass in Angola, Pope Leo XIV renewed his urgent call for peace in regions burdened by conflict, particularly Ukraine and the Middle East. Speaking in the Kilamba district of Luanda, the Holy Father expressed pastoral concern for those suffering under renewed violence and encouraged world leaders to pursue dialogue and diplomatic solutions.
Reflecting on the situation in Ukraine, the Pope acknowledged the recent escalation of attacks that have brought renewed hardship to civilians. Reports indicate a surge in violence, including large-scale drone strikes that have resulted in casualties across several cities. In light of this suffering, the Holy Father assured the Ukrainian people of his prayers and spiritual closeness. He emphasized the need for an end to hostilities, urging that weapons be silenced and that efforts toward meaningful dialogue take precedence over continued aggression.
Turning to the Middle East, Pope Leo pointed to a recently announced ceasefire in Lebanon as a moment of cautious hope. After prolonged violence that has claimed many lives, injured countless individuals, and displaced families, the truce offers a brief but meaningful respite. The Holy Father encouraged those engaged in negotiations to persevere in their efforts, expressing his desire that this initial step might lead to a broader and lasting peace throughout the region.
The Pope’s appeal comes at a time of continued instability, as conflicts in both Ukraine and the Middle East remain unresolved. His message highlights the Church’s consistent call for peace rooted not merely in the absence of conflict, but in justice, reconciliation, and respect for human dignity.
Concluding his address, Pope Leo invited the faithful gathered in Angola, along with Catholics around the world, to remain united in prayer. He acknowledged the real and present suffering experienced by many, while also affirming that the light of the Resurrection continues to shine even in the darkest circumstances. The hope of Easter, he reminded the faithful, is not distant or abstract, but a living reality that calls Christians to foster love, justice, and peace in their daily lives.
As he continues his apostolic journey across Africa, the Holy Father’s message remains clear and consistent. Peace is possible when hearts are open to dialogue, when nations commit to justice, and when the faithful entrust their hopes to Christ, who has conquered death and calls all people to unity in Him.