Pope Francis has called for an end to the fighting in Ukraine, telling worshippers in St Peter's Square in Rome on Sunday: "I beg above all that the armed attacks stop and that negotiation and common sense prevail."
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"There are rivers of blood and tears flowing in Ukraine," the Pope lamented, as some in the crowd held up Ukrainian flags.
"This is not just a military operation but a war that sows death, destruction and suffering," Francis said.
He did not mention Russia in his address but did thank journalists in Ukraine for their service, saying that they risked their lives to ensure that the public got reliable information and could "judge the cruelty of war".
The Pope announced that two Catholic cardinals had travelled to Ukraine in solidarity with the population there.
"The Holy See is ready to do everything and to put itself at the service of this peace," Francis said.
He said that Cardinals Michael Czerny and Konrad Krajewski being in Ukraine not only represented the Pope's presence but also that of all Christians who believe that war is madness.
"Please stop it," Francis concluded.
Russia calls its actions in Ukraine a "special operation" not a war and says this is not designed to occupy territory but to destroy its southern neighbour's military capabilities and capture what it regards as dangerous nationalists.
with reporting from Reuters
Australian Associated Press
