Pope Leo XIV Calls for Dialogue Between Russia and Ukraine to End Meaningless War

Pope Leo XIV spoke with more than 80 journalists on his plane while returning to Rome from Metz on September 28. He discussed his pastoral visit to France, the role of the church in social issues, efforts to end wars, and the regulation of artificial intelligence.

Regarding international conflict, the Pope stated that wars are no longer meaningful. He emphasized that the church has a responsibility to invite leaders from Russia, Ukraine, and other nations to sit down for dialogue to find solutions. He criticized the industry that fuels war, noting that the billions of dollars spent on weapons could instead address global hunger, unemployment, and housing issues. He called for more spending on education and health and less on weaponry, stressing that the church must promote human dignity and the importance of life without encouraging violence, hatred, or armament.

On the topic of artificial intelligence, Pope Leo XIV stated that the concerns raised by experts and professionals should be taken seriously. He mentioned a report that the head of Nvidia claimed to have found a way to implement guardrails or limits within artificial intelligence to prevent harm, while simultaneously arguing against government regulation. The Pope called for political leaders, artificial intelligence pioneers, and social organizations to meet and examine current and future developments. He noted that the Holy See is working to ensure artificial intelligence does not destroy humanity or remove humans from dialogue.

Addressing social issues in France, the Pope discussed the systemic nature of sexual abuse within the church. He clarified that while abuse is primarily a human problem, it is amplified when it occurs within the church because it deeply wounds or destroys the faith of individuals. He explained that some organizations within the church can be described as systems that commit abuse.

Regarding the right to life and social teaching, the Pope responded to questions about euthanasia legislation in France. He asserted that the church does not intervene in politics but applies the gospel to life when defending life and discussing social teaching. He also addressed housing crises, citing an example of an elderly disabled woman in Madrid evicted due to rent increases. He urged political leaders and authorities to find systemic solutions to housing problems, stating that church groups and individuals should seek more just solutions.

During his visit, the Pope met with 80,000 young people at the Stade de France in Paris and visited Lourdes, where he observed the restoration of dignity for elderly and sick patients. Regarding the decline of the church in Germany, he expressed belief that many people still wish to live their faith if the correct missionary spirit is found. He confirmed his plan to attend the World Youth Day in South Korea next year.