Pope Leos Call for Global Leaders to Pursue Lasting Peace

May 31, 2026

Vatican City, May 31: In his weekly address from the Apostolic Palace, Pope Leo XIV once again appealed to global leaders for peace. He prayed that God guides these leaders towards a just and lasting peace.

Additionally, he urged the promotion of compassion and welfare for the sick. The Pope also greeted pilgrims gathered at Poland’s famous Marian shrine.

In his address, Pope Leo expressed his hope that “God enlightens the conscience of those in power and directs their decisions towards fair and lasting peace.” He noted that the entire Church had prayed for peace last month.

“Dear brothers and sisters, during May, the entire Church has united in prayer for peace. Through the Rosary, people have continuously and unceasingly entrusted those suffering from war to the help and prayers of the Virgin Mary,” he stated.

Pope Leo also mentioned that Italy is currently hosting its 25th “Relief Day,” with this year’s theme being “I Take Care.”

“I stand close to those who are sick and to all those who care for them. I thank and encourage everyone who helps spread a culture of closeness and care,” he added.

Pope Leo has consistently raised his voice against the crisis in West Asia. This has led to open opposition from U.S. President Donald Trump, resulting in a prolonged dispute.

Trump accused the first American Pope of aiding Iran and making the world less secure through his comments. He alleged that the Pope advocated for Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.

However, the Pope has never stated that Iran should obtain nuclear arms. He has only called for peace talks and criticized Trump’s threats of war and large-scale attacks on civilians in Iran. The Pope clarified that he speaks not as a political rival but based on the teachings of the Bible and the Church.

In response to Trump’s criticism, Pope Leo told reporters that the Catholic Church has “long spoken against all types of nuclear weapons, without a doubt. The Church’s mission is to promote peace. If anyone wants to criticize me for that, let them do so truthfully.”