**Pope Leo XIV Speaks Out Against Russia’s War in Ukraine**
The newly appointed Pope Leo XIV has made headlines with his strong statement against Russia’s continued war against Ukraine. In an interview with a Peruvian news outlet, Semanario Expresión, on May 9, the Pope condemned Russia’s actions as “a true invasion, imperialist in nature, where Russia seeks to conquer territory for reasons of power.”
This marks a significant departure from his predecessor, Pope Francis, who faced criticism for not clearly assigning responsibility for the war. While Pope Francis called for peace and repeatedly described Ukrainians and Russians as “brothers,” many Ukrainians viewed his statements as failing to adequately address Moscow’s brutal actions.
**A New Direction for the Catholic Church?**
Pope Leo XIV’s comments come just days after he was appointed as the new leader of the Catholic Church, following Pope Francis’ death on April 21. The new Pope will play a decisive role in shaping how the religious institution responds to Europe’s largest war since World War II.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has congratulated the new Pope on his appointment, emphasizing Ukraine’s deep appreciation for the Holy See’s consistent position in upholding international law and condemning Russian military aggression. As leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV will be closely watched as he navigates this complex issue.
**A Complex Legacy**
Pope Francis’ legacy in Ukraine is more complex than initially meets the eye. While he was widely seen as a reformer who led the church with compassion and humanity, his statements on the war were often criticized for not being clear or strong enough. The new Pope’s comments represent a shift in tone, one that aligns more closely with Ukraine’s views on the conflict.
As the world watches how Pope Leo XIV responds to this crisis, it remains to be seen whether his leadership will bring about a new era of clarity and strength for the Catholic Church in its response to global conflicts. One thing is certain: his words have already made an impact, and they will likely continue to shape the conversation around Russia’s war in Ukraine.
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