Pope Leo takes aim at ‘autocrats’ during inaugural mass in front of tens of thousands of well-wishers
Leo uses first speech as pope to condemn war
- Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, delivered his inaugural address to a crowd of approximately 250,000 in St. Peter's Square on Sunday.
- He emphasised unity and communion as central pillars of the Catholic Church and condemned autocrats who cause war and unrest.
- The inauguration ceremony included a symbolic popemobile ride and the presentation of the pallium and fisherman's ring, signifying Leo's role as successor to St. Peter.
- Dignitaries present included US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
- Mr Zelensky's presence sparked hopes for further peace talks in Rome following his meeting with US President Donald Trump at Pope Francis's funeral.