https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/pope-leo-leans-into-statesman-role-urging-peace-in-an-era-of-renewed-warContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/pope-leo-leans-into-statesman-role-urging-peace-in-an-era-of-renewed-warhttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/pope-leo-leans-into-statesman-role-urging-peace-in-an-era-of-renewed-war#u93964Fri, 02 Oct 2026 07:00:21 +0000Pope Leo XIV has wrapped up a four-day apostolic journey to France, where he combined pastoral engagements with high-level diplomacy. During his trip, the pontiff leaned into a prominent statesman role by calling for peace and concessions in Ukraine, urging Europe to choose reconciliation over division, and warning against increased nationalism. The pope also drew massive crowds, led a candlelight rosary procession in Lourdes, praised European democracy, and sparked debate by criticizing France's legalization of assisted dying as false compassion.Why it mattersThe papal visit highlights t