The Pope who couldn’t name evil: Francis’s struggle with Russia’s war on Ukraine
A Pontiff caught between prophetic duty and diplomatic tradition chose an uneasy middle path.
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Pope Francis
33 posts
Pope Francis was “pro-Ukrainian” but wouldn’t name Russia as aggressor: Orthodox theologian explains pontiff’s complex legacy
Between diplomatic silence and prophetic truth, Pope Francis walked a tightrope that Ukraine couldn't afford.
Vatican has no mediator role between Ukraine and Russia, says Ukrainian Catholic leader
Archbishop Sviatoslav said that in response to a question about Pope Francis's controversial statements on the Russo-Ukrainian war.
“Hypocritical” to arm Ukraine, Pope Francis says, silent on Russian terror
The pontiff criticized European weapons deliveries to Ukraine while calling for peace negotiations, yet notably refrained from urging Russia to withdraw its invasion forces or release deported Ukrainians.
Zelenskyy seeks Pope’s help to free Ukrainian prisoners held in Russia
The President reportedly presented his "victory plan" and invited Vatican participation in a POW conference.
Russo-Ukrainian war, day 916: Ukraine tests first domestic ballistic missile
Meanwhile, a Russian combat drone's incursion into Polish airspace has sparked urgent discussions within NATO, raising concerns about escalating provocations.
Pope, World Church Council criticize Ukraine law; theologian claims Moscow exploits situation
The WCC and Pope are slow to condemn Russia, quick to rebuke Ukraine, warns theologian Cyril Hovorun
Vatican Special Representative Cardinal Parolin comes to Ukraine to meet with Zelenskyy
During his visit, Cardinal Parolin underscores Pope Francis's ongoing efforts to achieve a just peace for Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts.
Pope again calls for negotiations, which would freeze war to Russia’s benefit
Pope Francis has reiterated his call for negotiation and peace between warring countries, specifically mentioning Ukraine and Gaza, without directly urging Russia to cease its aggression or withdraw its troops.
Pope prays for people slain in war over rosary and Bible of fallen Ukrainian soldier
The Vatican held a moment of silent prayer for Oleksandr, a young Ukrainian soldier who lost his life in the war, as Pope Francis called for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Pope calls for prisoner exchange “all for all”; Ukraine responds: Russia doesn’t want it
Pope Francis calls for an "all for all" prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine in his traditional Easter address. Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War responds that while they are ready, Russia is unwilling to repatriate its own people.
“Capitulation is not peace”: Stoltenberg counters Pope’s remarks; more leaders critique Pontiff’s call for Ukraine’s surrender (updated)
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg rejects Pope Francis' call for Ukraine to negotiate with Russia, emphasizing that capitulation is not peace and urging continued military support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Zelenskyy rebukes Pope’s “white flag” remark
The Pope’s remarks have sparked widespread condemnation from Ukraine and its allies, with many interpreting them as a call for Ukraine to surrender.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to discuss “fundamental points” with Pope Francis
Pope Francis has faced criticism for suggesting that Ukraine should raise the 'white flag' and negotiate with Russia to end the war.
Ukrainian FM tells Pope: “Our flag is yellow and blue. No others will fly”
Pope Francis has faced criticism for suggesting that Ukraine should have the courage to raise the "white flag" and negotiate an end to the war with Russia.
Russo-Ukrainian war, day 745. Pope’s “white flag” diplomacy, Ukraine’s draft-dodging ring
Pope Francis strikes again, urging Ukraine to wave the white flag. Report calls to mobilize women to sustain the nation's defense.
Pope urges Ukraine to raise the white flag, sparking controversy
The Pope's ambiguous statements on the conflict, often failing to clearly identify Russia as the aggressor, have led some to question the Vatican's understanding of the situation in Ukraine.
Pope Francis admits his words about Russia were inappropriate
Pope Francis explained what he meant when he spoke about “great Russia” to Russian youth on 25 August…
Vatican removes Pope’s quote about ‘great Russia’ after Ukrainian backlash
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry criticizes Pope Francis for praising ‘great Russia’ in his speech.
Pope sends envoy to Ukraine to explore potential paths to peace – NYT
Pope Francis has sent Italian Cardinal Matteo Zuppi to Ukraine on a two-day trip to discuss prospects for…
