VATICAN CITY — In his first public remarks following his appointment, Pope Leo XIV condemned Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, labeling the conflict an “invasion” driven by imperialist ambitions. During an interview with the Peruvian publication Semanario Expresión on May 9, the newly elected pope called attention to Russia’s aggressive pursuit of territorial gains under the guise of power.
Pope Leo’s comments mark a significant shift from the stance previously held by Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. Just a day before Leo’s appointment on May 8, cardinals gathered in the Vatican for a conclave to select a new leader for the Catholic Church. Pope Francis was often viewed as a compassionate reformer, but his nuanced approach to the Ukraine crisis drew criticism, particularly from Ukrainians who felt his messages did not adequately confront Russian aggression.
Throughout the conflict, Pope Francis had been characterized as reluctant to place full responsibility for the war on Russia, referring to both Ukrainians and Russians as “brothers” in an effort to promote peace. However, many viewed this as disconnected from the realities on the ground, where the intense violence and humanitarian crisis faced by Ukrainians contrasted sharply with his conciliatory language. Critics argued that this approach obscured the harsh realities of the ongoing conflict.
Pope Leo’s decisive words resonate particularly in light of Ukraine’s ongoing struggle for sovereignty and support. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the pope’s remarks, expressing gratitude for the Vatican’s firm stance on international law and its condemnation of Russia’s military actions. Zelensky stated that Ukraine appreciates the Holy See’s commitment to defending the rights of innocent civilians amid the turmoil.
As the leader of the global Catholic Church, Pope Leo’s response to this conflict may forge a new path in the Church’s engagement with global issues. His appointment arrives as Europe grapples with the largest military confrontation since World War II, raising expectations for how he will navigate this crisis.
In related news, a prominent figure emerged from Russia, adding to the growing narrative of dissent within the country. Ekaterina Barabash, a 64-year-old film critic and journalist, recently gained attention for her audacious escape from house arrest in Russia, where she had been confined for criticizing the war on social media. Barabash’s flight to France highlights the Kremlin’s intensified crackdown on dissent and the risks faced by those speaking out against the government’s actions.
The international community continues to monitor both the Vatican’s evolving position on the conflict and the experiences of individuals like Barabash, who represent the mounting resistance to authoritarianism. As Pope Leo XIV settles into his new role, his statements may significantly influence both the Catholic Church’s engagement with global crises and the broader discourse surrounding Russia’s actions in Ukraine.