Pope criticizes surge of nationalist political movements as he prays for reconciliation, dialogue

Pope Leo XIV , marking a month since his formal inauguration, condemned a global surge in nationalist politics during his Sunday Mass in St. Peter's Square.

Addressing tens of thousands of people, he said we must "break down walls, dispel hatred," denouncing exclusionary ideologies without mentioning specific nations or leaders.

Echoing the words of the late Pope Francis, the pontiff highlighted the irony of growing societal isolation amid increasing digital connection.

Pope Leo also called for a just peace in Ukraine and Gaza, and prayed for reconciliation wherever conflict persists.