Pope Leo XIV Criticizes Nationalism, Echoes Familiar Calls For Peace Without Naming Names

In a Sunday Mass before tens of thousands in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV took aim at the rise of “political nationalisms,” though he avoided naming any country or political figure.

His remarks — emphasizing unity, peace, and dialogue — echoed a now-familiar tone from Vatican leadership. (RELATED: Pope Leo XIV And JD Vance Meet, Paving Way For Potential White House Visit)

‘May the strong wind of the Spirit come upon us and within us, open the borders of our hearts, grant us the grace to encounter God, enlarge the horizons of our love, and sustain our efforts to build a world in which peace reigns.’ Pope Leo XIV #Pentecost pic.twitter.com/NuNDyXP309

— St Michael’s Catholic College (@StMichaels_SE16) June 8, 2025

“Where there is love, there is no room for prejudice, for ‘security’ zones separating us from our neighbors, for the exclusionary mindset that, tragically, we now see emerging also in political nationalisms,” Leo said during his homily. While the pope did not cite specific movements or leaders, the target of his critique appeared to be the resurgence of nationalist and border-focused policies in parts of Europe, the United States, and the Global South.

As with his predecessor, Pope Francis, Leo’s rhetoric seemed designed to emphasize a borderless, humanitarian vision of society. He invoked Francis directly, recalling the late pope’s 2023 Pentecost message: “We are all connected, yet find ourselves disconnected from one another, anaesthetized by indifference and overwhelmed by solitude.”

Leo also condemned ongoing wars, saying they are “plaguing our world” and prayed for the “gift of peace.” He added, “First of all, peace in our hearts, for only a peaceful heart can spread peace in the family, society and international relations.”

This emphasis on internal transformation and high-level reconciliation has characterized Leo’s papacy since day one. His first public message — “Peace be with you all” — framed his pontificate as one rooted in unity and nonviolence. He has since issued calls for a “genuine and just peace” in Ukraine and a ceasefire in Gaza.