Pope Leo Warns World Is Facing a "Piecemeal" Third World War as Global Conflicts Surge. During his first trip abroad since becoming head of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo voiced deep concern that the world is facing an extraordinary wave of violent conflicts warning that a "piecemeal" third world war is underway and that humanity's future hangs in the balance. Speaking in Turkey, the first U.S. pope condemned political ambitions that undermine justice and peace, saying global tensions are being fuelled by economic and military power plays. President Erdogan praised Leo's stance on the Palestinian crisis, while the pope emphasised the urgent need for unity and dialogue. The visit marks the 1,700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed, and Leo's schedule includes meetings with Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew and trips to historic Christian sites. On the flight to Ankara, the pope said he hoped his first overseas journey would serve as a call for global peace and encourage people of different backgrounds to live together harmoniously. Leo will next travel to Lebanon, a country shaken by spillover from the Gaza conflict and rising fears of further escalation. Local leaders hope the trip will draw international attention to Lebanon's fragile situation as the region braces for potential new violence.