Pope Leo XIV calls for a truce before the 2026 Winter Olympics

The Pope Leo XIV called on world leaders to use the Winter Olympics to promote world peace. His words are quoted by the agency Reuters.

On Sunday, February 1, Leo XIV called on leaders to use the 2026 Olympics, which start next week in Italy, to promote peace. The Pope believes that government officials should take concrete steps toward de-escalation and dialogue.

Milan and the Alpine resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo will host the Olympics on February 6-22.

After the weekly prayer, the Pope said that major sporting events, including the Olympic Games, carry a "powerful message of brotherhood" and can revive hope for "world peace," recalling the long tradition of the Olympic truce.

"The Olympic truce is an ancient custom that accompanies the Games," Leo XIV said.

"I hope that those who care about peace between peoples and who hold leadership positions will take concrete steps on this occasion towards de-escalation and dialogue," he continued.

• In October 2025, the Italian Foreign Minister stated that the country will strive to achieve a global truce for the duration of the 2026 Winter Olympics.
• The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine reported that support the proposal regarding the so-called Olympic truce with Russia. Moscow has not commented on this initiative.