Pope Urges to Stop the Vicious Cycle of Violence and Death... First Warning to Putin

Pope Francis

On the 2nd (local time), Pope Francis urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to "stop the vicious cycle of violence and death."

According to major foreign media including dpa, the Pope made this appeal during a speech at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican, saying, "My appeal is above all directed to the President of the Russian Federation." He added, "He must do so out of love for his own people."

This is the first time the Pope has publicly mentioned President Putin to call for an end to the war.

Regarding Russia's recent annexation of occupied Ukrainian territories, the Pope expressed "deep regret over the serious situation caused by actions contrary to the principles of international law," criticizing that "this escalates the nuclear crisis and raises fears worldwide of uncontrollable and catastrophic consequences."

He also condemned, "It is foolish for humanity to face nuclear war once again," asking, "What else must happen, and how much more blood must be shed?"

At the same time, he urged Ukraine and the West to strive to end the war through diplomatic dialogue instead of conflict.

The Pope said, "I appeal for the President of Ukraine to have an open attitude toward serious peace proposals."

He also stated, "The key players in the international community and political leaders must make every effort to avoid dangerous situations and end the war."

The Pope referred to the war as "fear and madness," emphasizing once again that "we must rely on all diplomatic means to end this enormous tragedy."