Ukraine war: Francis surprises with offer

Pope Francis has called for a complete exchange of prisoners of war between Russia and Ukraine . During the traditional midday prayer in St Peter's Square in Rome, he emphasised that the Holy See was prepared to act as a mediator in this exchange. This applies in particular to the seriously injured and sick prisoners of war. At the same time, the Pope once again called on people to pray for peace in Ukraine, the Middle East and Myanmar.

In recent months, the Pope's statements on the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza conflict have been repeatedly criticised. Ambiguous statements and unclear positions have led to speculation about the Holy See's position in the conflicts. (ben/KNA)