Vatican News
Pope Leo spoke on the ceasefire and peace agreement in Ukraine, a resolution of the humanitarian crisis and hunger in Gaza, and the release of Israeli hostages there. These objectives of the Holy See’s “soft diplomacy” for issues that “cannot be resolved through war,” were expressed by Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday afternoon. He shared this message with journalists upon his arrival in Castel Gandolfo on Aug 13 where he will spend a second period of a summer break until Aug 19. While greeting the many people gathered to welcome him at the gates of Villa Barberini — his residence during these days — the Pope responded to questions from media reporters about international current events.
Always seek dialogue, diplomatic efforts
When asked what he expects from the upcoming Aug 15 summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Leo XIV replied: “We must always seek a ceasefire. The violence, the many deaths, must stop. Let’s see how they can come to an agreement. Because after all this time, what is the purpose of war? We must always seek dialogue, diplomatic efforts, not violence, not weapons.”
And when asked if he is concerned about the possibility of the population of Gaza being deported, the Pope said: “Very much (concerned). The humanitarian crisis must be resolved. We cannot go on like this. We know the violence of terrorism, and we honor the many who have died, as well as the hostages — they must be freed. But we must also think of the many who are dying of hunger.”
Problems that cannot be solved by war
Finally, when asked what the Holy See is doing to stop these and other conflicts, the Pope responded: “The Holy See cannot stop them… but we are working, let’s say, on ‘soft diplomacy,’ always inviting, encouraging the pursuit of nonviolence through dialogue and seeking solutions — because these problems cannot be solved by war.”
