Pope's Christmas Plea: Urges Russia-Ukraine Talks Amid Gaza Anguish
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Pope Leo XIV used his first Christmas message to call for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine. He addressed a crowd of approximately 26,000 people in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican.
The Pope also expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He described the situation there as "dire."
His annual "Urbi et Orbi" (to the city and the world) blessing traditionally addresses global conflicts. This year, his focus highlighted two major wars affecting international peace.