STORY: Pope Leo on Sunday (August 17) prayed efforts to end wars would be successful, in an apparent reference to U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin's discussions in Alaska two days ago.

"Let us pray that efforts to end wars and promote peace will be successful," said the pope in his weekly Sunday prayer, without mentioning specific nations. "May the common good of peoples always come first in negotiations."

The pope also expressed closeness to the people of Pakistan, India and Nepal hit by devastating floods, offering prayers for the victims, their families and all those suffering from the disaster.

In his address, he said parents, teachers and professionals often pay a price for integrity, but their commitment is vital for society. He urged people not to abandon ethical principles under pressure but to remain steadfast “for the good of all.”

DESCRIPCIÓN DE IMÁGENES

SHOWS: CASTEL GANDOLFO, ITALY (AUGUST 17, 2025) (VATICAN MEDIA - Access all)

1. POPE LEO ARRIVING TO LEAD ANGELUS PRAYERS

2. PEOPLE CHEERING

3. (SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE LEO, SAYING:

"Let us pray that efforts to end wars and promote peace will be successful. May the common good of peoples always come first in negotiations."

4. FAITHFUL LISTENING

5. (SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE LEO, SAYING:

"Dear brothers and sisters, I am close to the people of Pakistan, India and Nepal who have been struck by severe floods. I pray for the victims and their families, and for all those suffering because of this calamity."

6. FAITHFUL LISTENING

7. (SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE LEO, SAYING:

"Let us think, for example, of the price that good parents must pay if they want to educate their children according to sound principles. Eventually they will have to say “no” and correct their children; this will cause them pain."

8. POPE SPEAKING

9. (SOUNDBITE) (Italian) POPE LEO, SAYING:

"The same is true for a teacher who desires to form students properly, or for a professional, religious, or politician, who desires to carry out their mission honestly. It is true for anyone who strives to exercise his or her responsibilities consistently according to the teachings of the Gospel."

10. VARIOUS OF POPE OFFERING BLESSINGS

11. FAITHFUL

12. POPE SALUTING FAITHFUL

13. FAITHFUL