Pope Leo XIV on Thursday denounced the use of hunger as a weapon of war as he urged world leaders to act responsibly and focus on the multitudes across the globe who face hunger, wars and misery.

ROME -- Pope Leo XIV on Thursday called on world leaders to show responsibility as he urged the international community to focus on the multitudes across the globe who face hunger, wars and misery.

Pope Leo XIV leaves the Global World Food Day Ceremony in Rome, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) Pope Leo XIV leaves the Global World Food Day Ceremony in Rome, Thursday, Oct.