Pope Francis calls for an end to the war against Ukraine

March 14, BPN. After the traditional Sunday Angelus address on March 13, Pope Francis called for an end to the war against Ukraine, the Vatican news portal reported.

“We have just prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary,” the pontiff said. “This week, the city bearing her name, Mariupol, become a city of martyrs in the terrible war ravaging Ukraine. Faced with the barbarity of killing of children, of innocents and unarmed civilians, no strategic reasons can hold up. The only thing to do is stop this unacceptable armed aggression before it reduces cities into cemeteries.”

“With pain in my heart, I join my voice to that of the common people, who implore an end to the war. In the name of God, may the cry of the suffering be heard, may the bombing and attacks be put to an end! Let there be a real and decisive focus on negotiation, and let the humanitarian corridors be effective and safe. In the name of God, I ask you: stop this massacre! I would like to reiterate my call to welcome the many refugees in whom Christ is present, and to express gratitude for creating a great network of solidarity,” Pope Francis said.

He called on the faithful to “increase their efforts in praying for peace.” “God is only God of peace. He is not God of war, and those who support violence profane His name,” the pontiff stressed.