Pope recalls Ukraine in prayer and calls for peace

During a Sunday meeting with pilgrims in the Vatican, Pope Francis once again mentioned Ukraine. He also called for prayer for peace.

This was reported by Vatican News. The pontiff also specifically mentioned the situation in Gaza, where there are "very serious and painful" news about civilians who are being bombed and shelled.

"Let us not forget our brothers and sisters who are suffering because of war, in Ukraine, in Palestine and Israel, as well as in other conflict zones," Pope Francis said.

The pontiff also mentioned the thousands of migrants who try to cross the Darien jungle between Colombia and Panama, pointing out that it is often "families with children who venture on dangerous routes, deceived by those who falsely promise them a short and safe way, who are subjected to abuse and robbery," and many "lose their lives in this jungle."

"A joint effort is needed by the countries directly affected and the international community to prevent this tragic reality from going unnoticed and to provide a humanitarian response to it together," he added.

Pope Francis also noted that the last Sunday of January is the World Day of Solidarity with Leprosy.

"I support all those involved in the rescue and social reintegration of people affected by this disease, which, although on the decline, is still one of those that causes the greatest fear and affects the poorest and most marginalized people," the pontiff said.

Earlier, Pope Francis also condemned the deaths of thousands of children in the wars raging in Ukraine, Gaza and Yemen. However, he traditionally did not name those responsible for these deaths.

Earlier, it was reported that a 9-year-old boy who lost his mother and suffered burns as a result of the Russian attack on Vinnytsia met with the Pope. Little Roma from Lviv presented Francis with a commemorative bracelet and received a blessing from the pontiff.

It was also reported that in September 2023, the bishops of the UGCC visited the Pope in the Vatican. During the audience, they told the pontiff that certain of his statements were painful for the Ukrainian people.