Pope Leo Urges Immediate Ceasefire as Ukraine War Enters Fourth Year

Vatican City, February 22, 2026: Four years after the outbreak of the war against Ukraine, Pope Leo has renewed his urgent call for peace, insisting that the silencing of weapons and the end of bombings can no longer be delayed.

Speaking after the Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace window at the Vatican, the Pope appealed for an immediate ceasefire and strengthened dialogue to pave the way towards peace.

“Let the weapons fall silent, let the bombings cease, let an immediate ceasefire be reached, and let dialogue be strengthened to pave the way toward peace,” he declared.

Marking the fourth anniversary of the large-scale invasion of Ukraine, Pope Leo said the conflict continues to unfold “before the eyes of the whole world”, leaving devastation and deep human suffering in its wake.

“So many victims, so many lives and families shattered, such immense destruction, such unspeakable suffering,” he said. “Every war is truly a wound inflicted upon the entire human family; it leaves in its wake death, devastation and a trail of pain that marks generations.”

He stressed that peace cannot be postponed and described it as “an urgent necessity” that must take root in hearts and be translated into responsible decisions.

The Pope invited the faithful to unite in prayer for the embattled people of Ukraine and for all those suffering because of war across the world, expressing hope that the long-awaited gift of peace would shine upon humanity’s days.

Since the beginning of the conflict, the Holy See has consistently appealed for an authentic, just and lasting peace. Pope Leo has repeatedly called the war “senseless” and pressed for the release of prisoners and the return of children to their families.

The harsh winter conditions, which intensify the destruction caused by bombardments, have also weighed heavily on his concerns. In his Christmas Urbi et Orbi message, he urged the parties involved, with the support of the international community, to find the courage for sincere, direct and respectful dialogue.

Continuing the solidarity shown by his predecessor, the Pope has sent humanitarian assistance to Ukraine through the Papal Almoner and has met families of soldiers, displaced people, refugees and Ukrainian pilgrims. He has also spoken by telephone with Russian President Vladimir Putin and reaffirmed the Holy See’s readiness to host negotiations, including during a meeting last December with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

As the conflict escalates and civilians continue to suffer, Pope Leo’s appeal remains steadfast: serious commitment to dialogue and an immediate end to violence are essential if peace is to prevail.

Pope Leo Urges Immediate Ceasefire as Ukraine War Enters Fourth Year

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