Pope Leo urges release of reporters held for ‘seeking truth’, as Zelensky invites to Ukraine

Pope Leo XIV called on Monday for the release of journalists jailed “for seeking and reporting the truth” and warned reporters against using their words to fan hatred.

The former Robert Francis Prevost, the first US pope, was speaking at an introductory audience with the media after being elected by cardinals in a secret conclave on Thursday.

“Peace begins with each one of us – in the way we look at others, listen to others and speak about others,” he told assembled journalists at the Vatican’s vast Paul VI audience hall.

“In this sense, the way we communicate is of fundamental importance. We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images. We must reject the paradigm of war.”

The 69-year-old Augustinian missionary expressed solidarity with journalists around the world who have been jailed for trying to seek and report the truth. Drawing applause from the crowd, he asked for their release.

“The Church recognises in these witnesses – I am thinking of those who report on war even at the cost of their lives – the courage of those who defend dignity, justice and the right of people to be informed, because only informed individuals can make free choices.

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Robert Prevost chosen as new pope, first US pontiff in history of Catholic Church

Robert Prevost chosen as new pope, first US pontiff in history of Catholic Church