The Vatican has officially proclaimed American Robert Prevost, with the papal name Leo XIV, as the new Pope, the successor to the recently deceased Pope Francis.

The highest-ranking cardinal stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica and made the traditional Latin announcement: "Habemus Papam" - meaning "We have a new Pope."

Prevost was introduced as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church this afternoon, stepping out onto the balcony to greet the excited crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square.

This announcement comes after white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney in the afternoon - the signal indicating that the cardinals have reached a decision.

The conclave, made up of 133 cardinals, made the decision on the second day of discussions.