Pope Leo XIV calls for European values and peace in Metz

Metz-based European founding father Robert Schumann was the focus of Pope Leo

It is about finding back to the roots of European values, said the Pope in Metz and in French. This also applies to dealing with migrants and refugees: "Taking someone in means integrating them like a family member and offering them the opportunity to develop their talents, skills and personality, but also to fit into the spirit of the house," he said.

Indirect criticism of Trump

Pope Leo underlined the importance of international law and multilateralism. European values ​​must be a counterweight to current trends in world politics. The Pope's words followed, which can certainly be seen as indirect criticism of the political style of American President Donald Trump:

Europe as a theater of war

Europe can put an end to this downward spiral in political culture, said the Pope. He described Europe as a haven of human rights, but also as a theater of war. Without directly mentioning Ukraine, Leo spoke of the renewed war in Europe and a "senseless slaughter" that claims countless victims every day. It is necessary to show courage in the negotiations and to be prepared to "give up certain positions for the greater good of peace." What exactly he meant by that remained unclear.

Finally, the Pope addressed the youth: "Love life in every moment and do not be afraid of the future! Do not be afraid of starting a family, giving birth to children."

Few political celebrities represented

The number of heads of state and government from the EU who attended the Europe speech was extremely manageable. French President Emmanuel Macron was only joined by Grand Duke Guillaume of Luxembourg and his head of government Luc Frieden. Germany was represented by the Saarland Prime Minister and cultural representative for German-French relations, Anke Rehlinger. Prince Albert II of Monaco was also there. That's it - a protocol fiasco for host Macron, who invited all heads of state and government of the European Union to Metz.

As in Paris and Lourdes, Pope Leo