During his first Regina Caeli celebration, Pope Leo XIV made a strong appeal for peace, recalling 80 years since the end of World War II on May 8, 1945. "Brothers and sisters, the immense tragedy of World War II ended 80 years ago, having claimed 60 million lives. In today's dramatic scenario of a third World War in pieces, as Pope Francis said, I too address the great of the world: never again war!" the Pontiff said in a moved voice. The Pope addressed a special thought to Ukraine, ahead of the upcoming Reconstruction Conference to be held in Rome, as the suffering of the civilian population continues in the country. In April alone, 19 children lost their lives, according to Unicef. "I carry in my heart the suffering of the beloved Ukrainian people," he said, "let everything possible be done to achieve genuine, just and lasting peace. May all the prisoners be freed and may the children return to their families". The Pontiff then turned his gaze to the Gaza Strip, where the humanitarian situation is increasingly critical: "I am deeply saddened by what is happening in the Gaza Strip. Cease the fire immediately! Relief be rendered to the exhausted civilian population and all hostages be freed". Finally, a thought for Mother's Day: "I send a dear greeting to all mothers, with a prayer for them and for those who are already in Heaven. Happy Mother's Day to all mothers!”