Vatican City, Feb. 23, 2025 – Pope Francis has described the third anniversary of the ongoing war in Ukraine as a “painful and shameful occasion for all humanity,” renewing his call for peace and solidarity with all victims of armed conflicts worldwide.
The Holy Father’s message was shared during his Angelus address, which he requested the Holy See Press Office to release while he continues receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for double pneumonia.
“Tomorrow marks the third anniversary of the full-scale war against Ukraine: a painful and shameful occasion for all of humanity!” the Pope said in his address, marking the grim milestone of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, launched on February 24, 2022.
Since the war began, an estimated 10,000 civilians have been killed and millions of Ukrainians have been displaced, according to reports from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The conflict has also resulted in widespread destruction of infrastructure, schools, and hospitals, intensifying the humanitarian crisis.
Pope Francis, who has consistently condemned the war and urged diplomatic efforts to end hostilities, once again referred to Ukraine as “martyred,” a term he has frequently used to describe the suffering inflicted on its people.
“As I renew my solidarity with the martyred Ukrainian people,” the Pope said, “I invite you to remember the victims of all armed conflicts and to pray for the gift of peace in Palestine, Israel, the Middle East, Myanmar, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Kivu region, and Sudan.”
The 87-year-old Pontiff has been hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital since February 14, receiving treatment for a respiratory infection. Despite his health struggles, he has remained actively engaged in global affairs, continuing to issue statements on pressing humanitarian concerns.
The Pope also took a moment to express his appreciation for the outpouring of well-wishes and prayers from around the world.
“In these days, I have received many messages of affection,” he said. “I have been particularly moved by the letters and drawings from children. Thank you for this closeness and for the comforting prayers I have received from all over the world!”
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He concluded his message with a request for continued prayers for his recovery and the intercession of Mary, the Mother of God.
Pope Francis has been a vocal advocate for ending the war in Ukraine, urging both Russia and Ukraine to seek peace through dialogue rather than violence. In previous statements, he has condemned Russia’s aggression, called for an immediate ceasefire, and encouraged international mediation efforts.
As the world marks three years of devastating conflict, his words serve as a reminder of the ongoing suffering and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
