In a solemn Christmas address, Pope Francis called for courage to end wars, heal divisions, and bring hope to a world plagued by conflict and crisis, urging nations to embrace reconciliation during the Holy Year.
From the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis addressed thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, emphasising the need to silence the "sound of arms" in Ukraine and other conflict zones. He called for bold steps towards negotiation and lasting peace, highlighting humanitarian crises in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.
The pontiff also turned attention to regions affected by political instability and armed violence, including Mali, Mozambique, and Haiti. He expressed concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging for a ceasefire and the release of hostages taken in October 2023.
Marking the beginning of the Holy Year, the pope invited people to "become pilgrims of hope," fostering reconciliation and dialogue. The Jubilee Year, running through January 2026, is expected to draw millions of pilgrims to Rome, symbolising peace and forgiveness.
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13:30
Regional Voices
As peace talks progress, voices from Yerevan, Tbilisi, and Baku reveal hopes, concerns, and expectations for a future shaped by trade, trust, and generational change in the South Caucasus.
13:40
Ukraine
Ukraine is holding off on confirming its participation in peace talks with Russia until it receives a formal proposal document outlining Moscow’s positions, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Friday.
14:20
As Russia signals readiness for fresh peace talks, Ukraine urges immediate delivery of Moscow's memorandum, stressing the need for a productive and result-oriented meeting.
20:24
Russia is prepared to present a detailed peace memorandum to Ukraine during the second round of renewed direct talks in Istanbul, scheduled for Monday, June 2, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced Wednesday.
14:55
World News
Russia has accused Ukraine, with backing from some European countries, of taking actions that threaten ongoing peace talks between the two nations. These direct talks, held on May 16 for the first time in over three years, ended without a ceasefire agreement.
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