Pope Urges End to ‘Pandemic of Arms’

Pope Leo XIV on Sunday called for a halt to what he described as the “pandemic of arms”, praying for the countless children killed by firearms and conflicts worldwide.

The pontiff reiterated his appeal for peace at the conclusion of the Angelus prayer, particularly urging a ceasefire in Ukraine following a Russian attack on Kyiv last Thursday, which claimed the lives of at least 25 people, including four children.

He also referenced the recent school shooting in Minnesota, United States, where two children tragically lost their lives during a mass.

In English, Pope Leo XIV said: “We include in our prayers the countless children killed and injured every day around the world. Let us plead with God to stop the pandemic of arms, large and small, which infects our world.”

Regarding Ukraine, the pope emphasised the need for the global community “not to give in to indifference”. He reiterated his insistent call for an immediate ceasefire and urged a serious commitment to dialogue.

“It is time for those responsible to renounce the logic of arms and embark on the path of negotiation and peace, with the support of the international community,” he said.

His message highlights the urgency of prioritising negotiation over violence and fostering global efforts to safeguard innocent lives, especially those of children caught in conflicts.