**Pope Leo XIV Expresses Solidarity with Ukraine’s Greek Catholic Pilgrims**
In a moving address to Ukrainian Greek Catholic pilgrims at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV called out Russia’s “senseless war” against Ukraine, labeling the country as “martyred”. The Pope’s words came on June 28, during the Jubilee celebration, which has the theme of “Pilgrims of Hope”.
The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is a significant denomination in Ukraine, making up around one-tenth of the population. Many of its adherents are concentrated in western Ukraine and retain strong ties to Orthodox traditions.
**Supporting Ukraine’s Families**
Pope Leo expressed his solidarity with the families affected by Russia’s aggression, particularly those who have lost loved ones. He also offered a special blessing to mothers of soldiers killed on the front lines. The Pope acknowledged that many Ukrainians have questioned God’s presence and purpose during this turbulent time.
**Meeting with Ukrainian Leadership**
The address was attended by Sviatoslav Shevchuk, Head of the Greek Catholic Church in Ukraine, along with other bishops, priests, and lay believers. After the event, President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Pope Leo for his continued support and prayers for Ukraine.
**Seeking Justice and Peace**
In his address, Pope Leo called for a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, which has been sorely tested by Russia’s full-scale invasion. He also offered to host peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow at the Vatican, an initiative that has met with mixed reactions from Ukrainian leaders and Russian officials.
**A Different Approach**
The Pope’s stance on Ukraine is viewed as a departure from his predecessor, Pope Francis. While Pope Francis had made comments that were criticized by some Ukrainians, Pope Leo has taken a more supportive approach towards Ukraine.
**Background**
Pope Leo XIV was elected head of the Catholic Church in May after the death of Pope Francis. In a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this month, Pope Leo urged Russia to make a gesture favoring peace.
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