“Pope Leo is the first American Pope. This is a momentous moment. As Pope Francis’ papacy showed, the Holy See has a special role to play in bringing people and nations together to address the major issues of our time; especially on climate change, alleviating poverty and promoting peace and justice across the world.”

— British Prime Minister Keir Starmer

“Born in the United States and naturalised Peruvian in 2015, His Holiness lived and served for years in our country, where he shared the life of the people with humility, love and deep faith. His closeness to the most needy left an indelible mark in our hearts.

“The Peruvian people, a nation of faith and hope, unite in prayer for his pontificate and celebrate with gratitude that a pastor who loved Peru is now guiding the universal Church. May God bless him and accompany him in his mission!”

— Peruvian President Dina Boluarte

“Italians will look to you as a guide and point of reference, recognising in the Pope and the Church that spiritual and moral authority that derives from its inexhaustible message of love, charity and hope, which flows from the Word of God.”

— Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

“Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your election as Pope. I am confident that the constructive dialogue and cooperation established between Russia and the Vatican will continue to develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us.

“I wish you, Your Holiness, success in fulfilling the high mission entrusted to you, as well as good health and well-being.”

— Russian President Vladimir Putin

“A historic moment for the Catholic Church and its millions of faithful. To Pope Leo XIV, to all Catholics in France and around the world, I send a fraternal message.

“On this May 8th, may this new pontificate bring peace and hope.”

— French President Emmanuel Macron

“I hope he continues the legacy of Pope Francis, whose main virtues were the incessant search for peace and social justice, the defence of the environment, dialogue with all peoples and all religions, and respect for the diversity of human beings.

“We do not need wars, hatred and intolerance. We need more solidarity and more humanism. We need love for our neighbour, which is the basis of Christ’s teachings. May Pope Leo XIV bless us and inspire us in our ongoing quest to build a better and more just world.”

— Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva