World News: 'No more war' says Pope Leo XIV in first Sunday message

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Starting in Rome, Pope Leo XIV delivered his inaugural Sunday address in St. Peter's Square, making a powerful plea for global peace, urging for an end to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

"As Pope Francis has repeatedly stated, I too appeal to the great ones of the world, repeating the ever-relevant plea: No more war!''

On May 11, Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope, stood on the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to deliver his first Sunday blessing in front of a crowd of approximately 100,000.

He chose this position over the usual Apostolic Palace window, departing from tradition to symbolize a new approach.

In his address, Pope Leo XIV echoed the words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, by urging "No more war."

He expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, describing the global situation as a "Third World War being fought piecemeal."

While calling for lasting peace in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the pontiff also acknowledged the recent ceasefire between India and Pakistan.

The truce between India and Pakistan remains fragile with reports of renewed tensions.

On Saturday, May 10, India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire agreement following a series of military exchanges that had raised concerns about a broader conflict.

However, within hours of the truce being announced, renewed hostilities were reported along the Line of Control in Kashmir.

Both sides accused each other of violating the ceasefire, with incidents of shelling and drone activity occurring.

The ceasefire was facilitated by the United States, with President Donald Trump announcing the agreement and praising both nations for their decision.

It followed military clashes that had begun after a deadly attack by militants in Pahalgam in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir on April 22.

Finally, in France, the 78th Cannes Film Festival kicks off Tuesday until May 24.

This year's festival will open with the French comedy Leave One Day by Amelie Bonnin, marking the first time a debut director's film has been selected for the opening slot.

22 films have been officially selected for competition.

Notably, actors Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart will debut as directors with their respective films Eleanor the Great and The Chronology of Water.

Despite global challenges, including potential U.S. tariffs on international films, the festival's president expressed confidence in Cannes' commitment to showcasing diverse and significant films.

Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.