Pope Lav 14 urges halt to attacks as "innocent people suffer" in Russia and Ukraine
At his Sunday service he urged respect for international humanitarian law and an end to strikes on civilian targets.
Pope Lav 14 renewed his appeal for an end to attacks in and around Ukraine, saying innocent people are being killed and wounded on both sides of the conflict.
Speaking during his Sunday service, the pope told worshippers that "the number of tragic incidents is increasing, causing a rising number of civilian casualties, including children."
He added a direct appeal aimed at the parties in the fighting: "I repeat my sincere appeal that international humanitarian law be respected and that attacks on civilian targets from both sides cease."
Authorities and international bodies continue to track the human cost of the war: according to the United Nations, more than 16,000 civilians have been killed since the conflict began in February 2022, the vast majority of them Ukrainians.
The situation remains violent on the ground. "Zelensky: Russia plans to deploy between 30,000 and 50,000 North Korean soldiers," and media reports say Russia and Ukraine exchanged strikes last night that killed at least seven civilians and injured others on both sides, local authorities reported.
The pope's remarks come as calls mount across diplomatic and humanitarian circles for stronger protection of civilians and firmer observance of international humanitarian law amid continuing exchanges of fire.
Photo: EPA-EFE/VATICAN MEDIA HANDOUT
