Pope Leo Warns World Facing 'Piecemeal War' in First Foreign Visit

Pope Leo XIV used his first foreign trip on Thursday to warn that the world is facing spreading conflict, saying violent crises are escalating and peace is under threat. The pope said nations are being pushed toward confrontation and must choose restraint and dialogue.

Speaking in Turkey at the start of his November 27–30 visit, the pope said the world is witnessing the rise of what he called a “piecemeal” global war.

He added that leaders must resist political ambition and prioritise stability. He warned that ignoring conflict zones risks a wider breakdown.

The pontiff’s visit marks the 1,700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, a historic Christian gathering that produced the Nicene Creed. The pope plans events connecting Catholic, Orthodox, and Muslim communities, signalling an effort to rebuild dialogue in a tense geopolitical climate.

• Pope Leo warns rising conflicts signal a “piecemeal” global war
• First foreign visit highlights peace efforts and interfaith dialogue
• Turkey and Lebanon visits carry geopolitical and religious significance

During meetings in Ankara, Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan welcomed the pope and said the visit carried political and religious weight. Erdoğan said he hoped the trip would contribute to regional stability. Officials in Turkey say the visit is being closely watched due to strained global alignments and ongoing conflicts near Turkish borders.

The Vatican confirmed the pope will travel to Istanbul and then to Iznik, the historical site of Nicaea. Church officials described the visit as symbolic, noting that the anniversary is linked to debates over Christian unity and doctrine. The pope is expected to call for cooperation between faith communities.

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After Turkey, the pope will continue to Lebanon, where political instability, economic crisis, and tensions linked to nearby fighting have reshaped religious and social structures. The Vatican said the remainder of the tour will maintain a focus on peace, humanitarian needs, and support for local Christian populations.