Pope Francis took advantage of today to address the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, assuring that the war in Ukraine has become “so serious and threatening” that it is a cause for great concern.
“In the name of God and in the name of the sense of humanity that dwells in every heart, I renew my call for an immediate ceasefire to be reached,” the pontiff said.
He said that he strongly deplores the serious situation that has been created in recent days, with new actions contrary to the principles of international law. This increases the risk of a nuclear escalation with uncontrollable and catastrophic consequences worldwide.
He insisted that it is important to start negotiations that lead to solutions not imposed by force, but consensual, fair and stable, based on respect for human life, as well as the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each country, and of the minority rights.
“My appeal is addressed first of all to the President of the Russian Federation, begging him to stop, also out of love for his people, this spiral of violence and death,” he said.
He also said that he is deeply saddened by the immense suffering of the Ukrainian population after the aggression suffered and addressed an equally confident appeal to the President of Ukraine to be open to serious peace proposals.
He called on the political leaders of the nations to insistently do everything in their power to end the war in Ukraine, without being drawn into dangerous escalations, and to promote and support dialogue.
