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Pope Francis is following in the footsteps of his predecessors, standing with the innocent and fighting evil with good.

Pope Francis has been outspoken in his condemnation of Russia's war in Ukraine but has been careful not to name Russian President Vladimir Putin in statements he has made about the conflict. A news article published on the Vatican website earlier today explores the reason behind this decision, highlighting that the Pope has taken this careful step to maximise opportunities for dialogue and bring about an end to the current conflict:

"In order not to close the door, in order to always leave a crack open to the possibility of stopping evil and saving human lives."

At the outbreak of the conflict Pope Francis visited the Embassy of the Russian Federation in person, to present his concerns about the war to the representative of the Kremlin, urging for 'the path of negotiation' and for civilians to be spared.

Speaking at the Angelus on Sunday 13 March, the Pope spoke unequivocally about the "barbarity of the killing of children, of innocents" currently taking place, urging a halt to the "massacre" and an end to the "unacceptable armed aggression" against Ukraine.

The Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin has entreated the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov end Russian attacks in Ukraine, while requesting he guarantee genuine humanitarian corridors. Cardinal Pietro has also reiterated the Holy See's willingness to assist mediation in any way possible, with the Vatican repeating that it's never too late to initiate meaningful negotiations, or a ceasefire, in a war of incalculable and unrelenting consequences that risks a terrifying escalation.

Click here to visit the Vatican News website and find out more.