Pope Francis on Sunday denounced in particularly strong terms since the entry of Russian troops into Ukraine "
the martyrdom
" and "
aggression
" of the country by Moscow.
Read alsoPope Francis launches a global prayer for peace between Russia and Ukraine
"
More than a month has passed since the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine, since the beginning of this cruel and senseless war, which like every war represents a failure for all, for all of us
", declared the sovereign pontiff after the Angelus prayer.
“
War not only devastates the present, but also the future of a society.
I read that since the start of Ukraine's aggression, one out of two children has left the country.
It destroys the future, causes dramatic trauma for the youngest and most innocent among us.
This is the bestiality of war.
A barbaric and sacrilegious act
,” he said.
“
I pray that every political leader thinks about this, engages, and understands, looking at a martyred Ukraine, how each day of war makes things worse for everyone.
This is why I renew my appeal: enough is enough
,” added the Argentine pope, who was speaking from his residence to the pilgrims gathered in St. Peter's Square, some of whom were waving Ukrainian flags.
In recent weeks, the Pope - who has spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky but also with the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow Kirill - has multiplied calls for peace in Ukraine, denouncing a "
massacre
" in this country where "
flow of rivers of tears and blood
”.
A predominantly Orthodox country, Ukraine has a large Greek-Catholic minority attached to the Vatican, which is concentrated in the west of the country.
