Overview
- Speaking to reporters at Castel Gandolfo, he urged all people of goodwill to observe a one-day pause in hostilities on Christmas.
- He said it “appears” Russia declined the request, expressing sadness, as no formal acceptance by warring parties has been reported.
- He pointed to fresh Russian strikes in Ukraine and asked for a universal 24-hour halt to fighting across conflicts.
- On Gaza, he highlighted Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa’s recent visit and his call with parish priest Gabriel Romanelli describing precarious conditions.
- He is set to preside over Christmas Eve Mass and deliver the Urbi et Orbi blessing, where he plans to press the one-day peace appeal again.