Speaking to the crowd gathered at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV issued a strong appeal for peace in Sudan.
He drew special attention to the city of El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, where residents are trapped in a dire crisis without sufficient food, water, or medical supplies as the Sudanese army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces battle for control.
“I continue to follow with concern the tragic situation in Sudan, especially in the city of El-Obeid,” Leo said. “In expressing my spiritual closeness to all the people of the nation, I renew my appeal to those in authority to guarantee humanitarian corridors for the civilian population. At the same time, I urge the international community to support efforts aimed at bringing about an immediate ceasefire. Let us pray that the Lord may sustain those who are suffering, convert the hearts of those who sow violence, and grant the long-awaited peace.”
During his address, the Pope also reflected on the continuing conflict involving Ukraine and Russia. He called for strict adherence to humanitarian law and urged both nations to end strikes against civilian populations.
“It is time to halt the spiral of violence and make way for diplomacy and dialogue to pave the way for peace,” Leo said.
