In his first direct public comments since the beginning of the war in Ukraine on the 24th of February, the pope called for humanitarian corridors to be opened to allow Ukrainians to flee the intense fighting.

“In recent days we have been shaken by something tragic: war. Time and again we have prayed that this road would not be taken. And let us not stop talking; indeed, let us pray to God more intensely,” he said after reciting the Angelus on Feb. 27.

Referring to his appeal to people around the world to pray and fast for peace, he said: “For this reason, I renew to all the invitation to make March 2, Ash Wednesday, a day of prayer and fasting for peace in Ukraine. A day to be close to the sufferings of the Ukrainian people, to feel that we are all brothers and sisters, and to implore of God the end of the war.”

Source: CNA