Pope Francis has again called for an end to Putin’s war – and particularly pointed out the suffering of the many children in Ukraine.
“In the name of God I ask you: stop this massacre,” the pope said in front of thousands of believers. Bombing raids on hospitals and other civilian facilities are barbaric, the Church leader continued.
He also wrote on Twitter: “Never again war! Think especially of the children, of those who are deprived of the hope of a dignified life: dead or injured children, orphans; Children who have war remnants as toys… For God’s sake stop it!”
Photo: Gregorio Borgia / dpa
” data-zoom-src=”https://bilder.bild.de/fotos/believers-lifting-with-the-colors-of-the-ukranian-flag-painted-paper-up-during-the-angelus- m-8593b87de9654c51a933b4f3f3e0d825-79438076/Bild/3.bild.jpg”/> Worshipers hold up paper painted with the colors of the Ukrainian flag during Pope Francis’ midday Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s SquarePhoto: Gregorio Borgia / dpa
The Vatican advocates a cease-fire and offers to mediate between the Ukrainians and the attacking Russians. “War is madness, it must end!” Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, number two in the Papal States, told the Vatican News platform on Saturday. “We would have to have hearts of stone to remain impassive and allow this destruction to continue, let rivers of blood and tears continue to flow.”