Pope Leo used his first Christmas address to urge world leaders to show courage in ending the war in Ukraine, as diplomatic efforts led by the United States continue without direct talks between Kyiv and Moscow. In his sermon at St Peter's Basilica, the pope lamented the suffering of homeless people and the devastation caused by ongoing conflicts, highlighting the plight of Palestinians in Gaza. He drew parallels between the story of Jesus's birth and the fragile conditions faced by displaced populations, especially those living in tents in Gaza exposed to harsh winter weather. The pope's remarks come as aid agencies call for increased humanitarian support for Gaza, while Israeli authorities maintain that significant supplies have already been delivered since the ceasefire began.