Pope Leo XIV calls for peace and diplomacy ahead of Easter

Ahead of Easter, Pope Leo XIV has issued a strong appeal for peace, urging global leaders to choose dialogue over violence and power-based conflict. In his messaging, the Pope emphasized the need for authorities to be held accountable for the wars they initiate. On April 3, he is scheduled to preside over the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum in Rome, where he will carry the wooden cross himself for all fourteen stations, a departure from the practice of his predecessors. Vatican officials confirmed that the Pope held separate morning discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. During the call with Herzog, the Pope stressed the protection of civilians and international law in the Middle East. With Zelensky, the discussion centered on humanitarian efforts, including potential prisoner exchanges. Additionally, the Pope expressed hope that U.S. President Donald Trump might assist in finding a resolution to the Middle East conflict.