Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace in San Marino Address

Pope Leo XIV spoke in San Marino on August 24, 2026, calling on nations to step back from a culture of rearmament. His address focused on peace, rejecting the framing of any conflict as a holy war, and offering encouragement to young Catholics.

The speech came as Ukraine marked its 35th anniversary of independence. The Church of England also issued a statement of solidarity with Ukraine, explicitly rejecting the Russian Orthodox Church's characterization of the war as a holy war.

Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski, who leads the Ukrainian Catholic community in the United Kingdom, expressed hope for the Ukrainian people during the anniversary observance. He called on the international community to maintain support for Ukraine.

The pope's remarks in San Marino were brief but pointed. He did not name specific conflicts but spoke broadly about the danger of nations and institutions that treat war as a spiritual or moral good.

Vatican observers noted that the address fits a pattern of Leo XIV's papacy, which has consistently emphasized dialogue and de-escalation over confrontation. The pope has made similar appeals in previous addresses to European leaders.

The San Marino visit was part of a broader pastoral trip. Local Catholic communities welcomed the pope with public gatherings and prayer services throughout the day.