Pope Leo XIV calls for European unity and peace during Metz visit

Pope Leo XIV delivered a major address in the French city of Metz on Monday, the final day of a four-day visit to France, urging Europe to reconnect with its Christian heritage and to work toward peace and unity. The event was attended by several heads of state, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In his speech, the Pope said that relations between individuals and nations were becoming increasingly uncivilised, with honesty and commitments being disregarded in favour of dishonesty and deception. He said Europe, through its tradition of respect for others, could help reverse this trend.

He also addressed the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, now in its fourth year, saying that any negotiators seeking to end the conflict would need to be willing to compromise on their positions in order to achieve peace. He expressed sorrow that war had returned to Europe, describing it as a senseless and ongoing slaughter that continues to claim civilian lives daily. Metz was noted as a city with historical significance to the founding of the European Union.

Later on Monday, Pope Leo XIV was scheduled to take a final tour through the city in the popemobile and lead a Mass at Saint-Etienne Cathedral, which French President Emmanuel Macron was expected to attend. This followed earlier stops on his tour in Paris and Lourdes.