Pope Leo XIV Meets Zelensky at the Inaugural Mass and Advocates for Peace in Ukraine

Pope Leo XIV calls for peace in Ukraine, denounces conflict, and calls for talks during his introductory Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, met with newly elected Pope Leo XIV after his formal inauguration Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, where he made a strong plea for peace in Ukraine and reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s commitment to justice and unity.

“The martyred Ukraine is waiting for negotiations for a just and lasting peace to finally happen,” Pope Leo XIV said in his first significant speech as pope to a crowd of thousands assembled in St. Peter’s Square. The Vatican’s growing worry over the violence and the pressing need for a diplomatic settlement was highlighted by his remarks.

US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were among the dignitaries in attendance. Pope Leo demonstrated his intention to actively participate in international issues by shaking hands with President Zelensky and other world leaders following the Mass.

In his sermon, the pope denounced the exploitation of natural resources and global inequality while cautioning against the perils of marginalization, intolerance, and tyranny. “We must reject prejudice, violence, hatred, fear of difference, and an economic paradigm that exploits the planet’s resources and marginalizes the poorest people,” he stated.

He also promised to be an inclusive and humble leader of the Church. Pope Leo proclaimed that he would strive to rule without ever giving in to the urge to be an authoritarian.

There was a lively celebration and a somber custom at the inauguration Mass. Cheers broke out as the pope drove across St. Peter’s Square, which was packed with thousands of devoted pilgrims, tourists, and foreign visitors. Deep passion and great expectations for Pope Leo’s presidency were voiced by many in the crowd.

“I came specifically to see the Pope,” said Michelle, a pilgrim from Germany. There are a lot of people, which makes it really hectic. I was hoping to see the Pope.

Missouri traveler Joe claimed that one of the highlights of his vacation was seeing the inauguration of the first American Pope. It’s truly unique. I’m delighted we arrived early. “He will be an amazing Pope,” he continued.

Pia, a Chilean philosophy professor at Rome’s Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, was also present. “The Church has a new hope,” she declared. “He understands that peace and hope are what the Church and the world need.”

Traditional symbols of the pope’s new position were presented to him after the Mass. Over his shoulders was a pallium, symbolizing his shepherding power, and on his finger was the Ring of the Fisherman, which was carved with a picture of St. Peter. In order to bless the populace, he finally raised the Book of the Gospels.