The Pope could hardly be clearer about how he sees the war in Ukraine. Speaking in the Vatican at the height of the Russian attacks on Mariupol, named after the Virgin, he declared: “With pain in my heart, I join my voice to that of ordinary people, who are begging for an end to the war. In the name of God, hear the cry of those who suffer and put an end to the bombings and attacks.
“Focus on negotiation truly and decisively, and the humanitarian corridors effective and safe. In the name of God, I ask you: stop this slaughter!”
