Overview
- The pope issued the call for a 24-hour pause in fighting on Christmas, addressing reporters outside Villa Barberini in Castel Gandolfo.
- He said he was very sad that Russia had apparently rejected a Christmas cease-fire request tied to the nearly four-year war in Ukraine, which media reports say has seen intensified strikes.
- Appealing to “all people of good will,” he asked the world to honor at least one day of peace on December 25.
- On Gaza, he referenced Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa’s recent visit and a call with parish priest Gabriel Romanelli about preparations for Christmas under precarious conditions.
- Vatican coverage indicated he plans to continue diplomatic efforts and public appeals following Tuesday’s statement.