Pope Leo XIV has called for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza with the release of hostages and delivery of humanitarian aid.

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has become the first-ever American elected as the leader of the Catholic Church -- now known by his pontifical name of Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old, born on the Southside of Chicago, is seen as a diplomat of the church and was an important adviser to his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has invited the new Pope Leo XIV to visit the country after holding his first phone call with the pontiff on Monday. "Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers and to all our people,