Overview

• Pope Leo XIV has prioritized overhauling the Vatican bureaucracy, bringing order to the Curia after tensions under his predecessor.
• He repeated appeals for global peace including an offer to host Ukraine-Russia negotiations at the Vatican, a proposal that was declined by Russia.
• He has avoided high-profile media engagements and interviews, favoring discreet visits and pastoral meetings that underscore his low-key, conciliatory leadership.
• He revived papal traditions by returning to the summer residence at Castel Gandolfo and emphasizing liturgical symbols to reinforce his authority.
• At World Youth Day in early August, he addressed over a million young Catholics in Rome, urging active pursuit of peace and social justice.