Pope Leo XIV appeals for dialogue and concrete initiatives for peace in Ukraine

Pope Leo XIV called for dialogue and concrete peace initiatives in Ukraine during the Angelus prayer on November 1, 2026. The Pope expressed hope that cooperation between the parties would lead to further practical steps for peace, following a humanitarian action in the city of Olechky.

In Olechky, a city under Russian occupation and blockade, approximately 750 civilians were recently evacuated. The Pope noted that the collaboration required to make this humanitarian gesture possible should encourage a greater willingness to engage in dialogue. This follows recent communications between the Pope and the presidents of Russia and Ukraine regarding the need for a truce to allow for the safe evacuation of civilians and the delivery of medical and food aid.