Pope Leo XIV calls for end to wars in Ukraine, Gaza

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson called Prevost's selection "the greatest moment in the history of the greatest city," highlighting that the new pope was "born in Chicago, educated in Chicago, came back and served this city."

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Chicago mayor on Chicago native being named first American popeChicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the selection of Chicago native, Cardinal Robert Prevost, as the new pope of the Catholic Church.

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Johnson praised the new pope, saying he "recognizes and understands the value of immigration." The last pope to be named Leo, XIII, was known as the "Pope of Labor," and Johnson called Chicago the most pro-worker city in America.

Like the mayor, the new pope is reportedly a Chicago Cubs fan. Johnson said Chicagoans to tend to "take some partisanship," as "everyone has to know exactly who to root for -- but today, the world is rooting for Pope Leo."

"Today is truly a remarkable day" for Chicago and the world, Johnson said.

The Rev. Father Vito Crincoli told ABC News that the new pontiff's name selection of Leo follows a line of "strong popes."

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'Leos were strong popes': Father Vito Crincoli on history of the papal name LeoFather Vito Crincoli, LC, discussed what an American pope means for the future of the Catholic Church and the the history of the papal name Leo XIV

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"Leo XIII loved his people. He considered man not a machine. A man's work was a reflection of his dignity. This pope, we don't know this yet, but it would be really interesting to see why he took the name Leo," Crincoli said.

Crincoli also noted Pope Leo, a native to the South Side of Chicago, "loves" deep dish pizza.

President Donald Trump made a surprise appearance outside the White House Thursday afternoon and was asked for his reaction to the first American being selected as pope.

"It’s such a great honor for our country to have an American pope, and what greater honor could there be?" he said. "We're a little bit surprised but very happy."

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Trump touts 'great honor' of having American popePresident Donald Trump said "We're a little bit surprised but very happy" after Pope Leo XIV announcement. 

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Trump added that he plans to meet with Pope Leo XIV, saying, "They have already spoken to us. We'll see what happens."

"But again, to have the pope from the United States of America -- that's a great honor," he said.

Amid the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on social media, "Congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV @Pontifex on his election to the See of Saint Peter and the beginning of his pontificate."

"Ukraine deeply values the Holy See's consistent position in upholding international law, condemning the Russian Federation's military aggression against Ukraine, and protecting the rights of innocent civilians," Zelenskyy said. "At this decisive moment for our country, we hope for the continued moral and spiritual support of the Vatican in Ukraine's efforts to restore justice and achieve a lasting peace. I wish His Holiness Leo XIV wisdom, inspiration, and strength -- both spiritual and physical -- in carrying out his noble mission."

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said in a message to Pope Leo, "Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your election as Pope. I am confident that the constructive dialog and interaction 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."