World leaders across continents offered congratulations and hopeful messages following the election of Pope Leo XIV—formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—the first-ever pope from the United States.
President Donald Trump hailed the historic moment, calling it “a great honor” and expressing excitement about meeting the new pontiff. Former President Barack Obama also welcomed the news, describing it as a proud day for America and applauding Leo’s Chicago roots.
International leaders echoed their sentiments. Colombian President Gustavo Petro urged Pope Leo to champion the rights of migrants, particularly those mistreated in the U.S. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed hopes for deeper Vatican-Israel relations and stronger interfaith dialogue.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted shared Christian values and the pope’s role in offering global guidance. European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez emphasized peace, unity, and human rights.
Poland, a deeply Catholic nation, reaffirmed its readiness to work with the Holy See in promoting peace and shared values. French President Emmanuel Macron called it a “historic moment,” while Italy’s Giorgia Meloni praised Leo’s message of peace and responsibility.
From Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed for continued Vatican support in their struggle for justice and peace. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reflected on the significance of Leo’s leadership and its continuity with Pope Francis’ legacy.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also extended warm congratulations, pledging to continue close collaboration between the Vatican and the United Nations to advance justice, solidarity, and sustainability worldwide.