World: Leaders congratulate Pope Leo XIV on historic election as first American
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
World leaders have extended congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, following his election on May, 2025. Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, is a Chicago-born Augustinian friar who headed the influential Vatican Dicastery for Bishops.
President Donald Trump congratulated Pope Leo XIV, calling it a “Great Honor” for the country and expressing his eagerness to meet the new pope. Former President Barack Obama also congratulated Pope Leo XIV, describing it as a historic day for the United States and offering prayers for his success.
President Gustavo Petro hopes Pope Leo XIV becomes a leader for migrant people worldwide, especially Latin American migrants in the US.
President Isaac Herzog looks forward to enhancing Israel-Vatican relations and strengthening Jewish-Christian friendships.
President Vladimir Putin expressed confidence in continued constructive dialogue between Russia and the Vatican based on shared Christian values.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz acknowledged Pope Leo XIV’s role in providing hope and guidance to millions worldwide.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez hopes Pope Leo XIV’s papacy will contribute to strengthening dialogue and human rights globally.
President Andrzej Duda assured readiness to strengthen bonds with the Vatican based on shared values and responsibility for the common good.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen wishes Pope Leo XIV’s papacy to be guided by wisdom, strength, and commitment to peace and dialogue.
President Emmanuel Macron extended a message of fraternity to Pope Leo XIV and Catholics worldwide.
President Claudia Sheinbaum praised Pope Leo XIV’s values in favor of world peace and prosperity.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni sees Pope Leo XIV’s words as a call to peace, brotherhood, and responsibility.
President Volodymyr Zelensky hopes for continued moral and spiritual support from the Vatican in Ukraine’s efforts to restore justice and achieve lasting peace.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer views Pope Leo XIV’s election as a new chapter for the Church’s leadership and the world. President Cyril Ramaphosa believes Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on peace honors the legacy of Pope Francis.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres looks forward to building on the UN-Vatican legacy of cooperation to advance solidarity and build a just and sustainable world.
In his first address, Pope Leo XIV called for peace, unity, and dialogue, echoing Pope Francis. He emphasized the importance of walking together as a united Church, searching for peace and justice, and proclaiming Christ. His first major public event will be a Mass with cardinals on May 9, followed by the Sunday Angelus on May 11.
