Pope to speak on united Europe from French border town
Pope Leo, the first US pope, delivered a speech in Metz, France, urging European leaders to pursue peace in Ukraine through negotiation and compromise, while also praising European integration and multiculturalism. He cautioned against increased military spending and reiterated the EU's founding values.
Why it matters
The Pope's address offers a significant moral and political perspective on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the future of Europe, advocating for diplomatic solutions and unity amidst rising geopolitical tensions and the growth of far-right movements.
Pope Leo has said that negotiators seeking to end war in Europe must be willing to sacrifice some positions to achieve peace, as efforts to end Russia's bloody war in Ukraine continue to fail.
The first US pope, speaking to European leaders in Metz, home of Robert Schuman, a founding father of the European Union, lamented that "war has returned, even to Europe: a new senseless laughter, claiming countless civilian lives every day".
Offering his clearest political vision yet for Europe, Leo also praised integration and multiculturalism at a time when the far right is gaining strength across the region.
Speaking in French, he urged Europeans to recall the founding values of the EU, including the rule of law and the equality of all people without distinction of race, colour, class or profession. His speech received a standing ovation.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in