Pope Francis: The war in Ukraine is a shameful tragedy for all humanity

Pope Francis at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican. November 20, 2024. Photo: Vatican Media

At the conclusion of the General Audience at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican on November 20, Pope Francis reminded the audience that November 19 marked 1,000 days since the invasion of Ukraine. As reported by Vatican News, the Pontiff described this tragic milestone as "a shameful tragedy for all humanity."

"Yesterday marked 1,000 days since the invasion of Ukraine – a tragic date darkened by suffering and destruction, and at the same time, a shameful tragedy for all humanity," he said.

At the same time, the head of the Roman Catholic Church stressed, "This must not prevent us from supporting the tormented Ukrainian people, praying for peace, and working to ensure that dialogue replaces weapons, and encounters replace confrontation."

In addition, Pope Francis shared with the pilgrims a letter he had received the day before from a Ukrainian student.

The Vatican media also report that among those present at the audience was the wife of Ukrainian President Olena Zelenska, whom the Pope received in a private meeting earlier that day.

As previously reported by the UOJ, Pope Francis called again for peace in Ukraine.

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