Originally published at The Crux
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Pope Leo XIV appealed for peace in Ukraine on Sunday, noting “painful reports” of innocent people killed and injured in both Ukraine and Russia.
“Tragic incidents continue,” Leo said, “indeed, they are multiplying, resulting in ever-increasing civilian casualties, including children.”
The latest reports say Russian attacks on energy infrastructure and civilian-populated areas in several Ukrainian cities killed at least a dozen people and wounded dozens more overnight.
Russia’s official TASS news agency reported three civilians killed by Ukrainian drone attacks in the Russian city of Novgorod.
The pope made his appeal in remarks to pilgrims and tourists following the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday in St. Peter’s Square.
The pontiff said he stands “with the families of the victims, the injured, and all those suffering as a result of the ongoing conflict.”
“In the face of such pain,” Leo said, “I renew my heartfelt appeal for respect for humanitarian law and for both sides to cease attacks on civilian targets.”
“War only begets more war and causes enormous suffering,” the pontiff said.
“It is time to halt the spiral of violence,” the pope said, “and make room for diplomacy and dialogue to pave the way for peace.”
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