Pope Leo XIV has called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with the release of hostages and delivery of humanitarian aid.

Jumping straight into the geopolitical fray, the words of the U.S.-born pontiff are meant to single out Vladimir Putin — a notable difference with Pope Francis. The timing may also be just right to help his fellow American,

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited the new Pope Leo XIV to visit the country after holding his first phone call with the pontiff on Monday. "Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers and to all our people,