Vatican City – Catholic cardinals convening ahead of the upcoming conclave have issued a unified call for peace, urging all parties involved in the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East to pursue ceasefires and engage in unconditional peace talks.
In a formal statement, the cardinals expressed deep concern over the lack of progress in achieving peace in war-torn regions, stating, “We regret the ongoing violence and urge all sides to establish a permanent ceasefire and enter negotiations without preconditions.”
The appeal came as the cardinals wrapped up their final preparatory session at the Vatican before the conclave set for Wednesday, where they will elect the next pope.
Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church for 12 years before passing away on April 21, was a consistent voice for peace. His last public call for an end to global conflict came during his Easter address, delivered just one day before his death.