Pope Leo XIV has used his first Sunday noontime Regina Caeli (Queen of Heaven) address to call for peace in key conflicts across the globe.
Leading tens of thousands of people in Saint Peter's Square in prayer, the newly-elected Pope addressed the crowds, urging for an end to war.
“In today’s dramatic scenario of a third world war being fought piecemeal, as Pope Francis has repeatedly stated, I too turn to the world’s leaders, repeating the ever-timely appeal: never again war,” he said.
"I carry in my heart the sufferings of the beloved Ukrainian people. May everything possible be done to reach an authentic, just and lasting peace, as soon as possible. Let all the prisoners be freed and the children return to their own families."
He also pleaded for humanitarian aid to be allowed into the Gaza Strip and for the release of Israeli hostages. He also praised the ceasefire reached by India and Pakistan following an outbreak of military action last week.
"But how many other conflicts there are in the world! I entrust this heartfelt appeal to the Queen of Peace, so that she may present it to the Lord Jesus to obtain for us the miracle of peace," Pope Leo XIV added.
Peace has been a defining characteristic of the Pontiff's first few days as Pope. In his first address from the balcony above Saint Peter's Square after being elected Pope, he had greeted the crowds with a message of "Peace be with you!"
He also used his address to urge young people to listen to God's calling on the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.
"It is important that young men and women on their vocational journey find acceptance, listening and encouragement in their communities, and that they can look up to credible models of generous dedication to God and to their brothers and sisters," he said.
"Let us take up the invitation that Pope Francis left us in his Message for today: the invitation to welcome and accompany young people."
"Be not afraid! Welcome the call of the Church and of Christ the Lord."