World leaders congratulated Robert Francis Preuss, who was elected as the new pope, taking the name Leo XIV. Preuss thus became the first American to head the Catholic Church.

US President Donald Trump said that the election of the first pontiff from the United States was a "great honor."

"Congratulations to Cardinal Robert Francis Prefect, who has just been elected pope. It is a great honor to realize that he is the first American pope. What excitement and what a great honor for our country," Trump wrote on the social network Truth Social.

"I look forward to meeting Pope Leo XIV. This will be a very significant moment!" the Republican added.

The presidents of the European Council and the European Commission, Antonio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen, also congratulated Leo XIV, expressing their expectations for productive cooperation between the EU and the Vatican.

"I warmly welcome the election of the new Pope Leo XIV, which is a moment of hope for millions of people around the world. In these times of division and uncertainty, his spiritual leadership can inspire unity, compassion, and peace," Kosha wrote on social media.

He noted that the EU and the Vatican "share a deep commitment to human dignity." "I look forward to working together in our common pursuit of the common good," Kosta added.
In her congratulatory address, von der Leyen wished the new pope inspiration through his commitment to peace.

"We wish him a pontificate guided by wisdom and strength as he leads the Catholic community and inspires the world through his commitment to peace and dialogue," the EC president wrote.

Germany's newly elected Chancellor Friedrich Merz joined in the congratulations, saying, "Through your role, you give hope and guidance to millions of believers around the world in these difficult times."

French President Emmanuel Macron described the election of Robert Francis Prewost as a historic moment.

"A historic moment for the Catholic Church and its millions of faithful. I send a fraternal message to Pope Leo XIV, to all Catholics in France and around the world," Macron wrote on social media.

"On this May 8, may the new papacy be a bearer of peace and hope," the president added.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated the newly elected pope and said his country deeply appreciates the Holy See's support for international law and condemnation of Russian aggression.

"Congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election to the throne of St. Peter and the beginning of his pontificate," Zelensky wrote on X.

"Ukraine deeply appreciates the Holy See's consistent position in support of international law, condemnation of the Russian Federation's military aggression against Ukraine, and protection of the rights of innocent civilians. At this decisive moment for our country, we hope for continued moral and spiritual support from the Vatican in Ukraine's efforts to restore justice and achieve lasting peace. I wish His Holiness Pope Francis wisdom, inspiration, and strength—both spiritual and physical—in carrying out his noble mission. Ad multos annos!", he added. | BGNES