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“With a heart wounded by the violence that ravages your land, I address you on this day of your national feast,” the pope wrote in the letter.
Pope Leo XIV has called for a day of fasting and prayer for peace on Friday, Aug. 22, coinciding with the liturgical feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
On Aug. 19, Pope Leo XIV expressed hope for an end to the war in Ukraine, noting that hard work and prayer are needed to achieve peace.
Pope Leo XIV called for a peaceful resolution to the war between Russia and Ukraine ahead of the upcoming summit in Alaska between Trump and Putin.
Trump said that following a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russia and Ukraine will begin ceasefire negotiations that the Vatican might host.
In a virtual meeting, Pope Francis urged young Ukrainians to maintain hope and continue dialogue despite the ravages of war.
In addition to a small mobile medical unit, the Holy Father is sending to Ukraine six ultrasound machines.
Church leaders in South Africa have expressed their “full support” for Pope Francis’ offer to arbitrate for an end to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.