Papal appeal for peace in Ukraine

August 24, 2015

As tensions between Russian-backed rebels and the Ukrainian government increased in eastern Ukraine, Pope Francis issued an appeal for peace.

“With deep concern, I am following the conflict in eastern Ukraine, which has accelerated anew in these last weeks,” he said following his August 23 Sunday Angelus address. “I renew my appeal that the commitments undertaken to achieve peace might be respected, and that with the help of organizations and persons of good will, there might be a response to the humanitarian emergency in the country.”

“May the Lord grant peace to Ukraine, which is preparing to celebrate tomorrow the national holiday,” he added, referring to the Independence Day of Ukraine. “May the Virgin Mary intercede for us!”

 

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Further information:

• Le parole del Papa alla recita dell’Angelus (Holy See Press Office)
• Angelus Domini 2015.08.23 (Vatican YouTube)
• Pope Francis appeals for peace in Ukraine (Vatican Radio)
• 9 dead as shelling increases in eastern Ukraine (AP)