“War is madness, please stop”: Pope Francis calls for peace in Ukraine

Pope Francis on Sunday he made a sincere plea to put an end to the fighting in Ukraine that has let the country flow what he called “rivers of blood and tears.”

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is the largest European war since World War II. In the 10 days since Russia began its invasion, it is estimated 1.5 million people have fled the country., according to the UN refugee agency.

Russian President Vladimir Putin launched what he called a “special military operation” in the early hours of the morning of February 24. The pope rejected Russia’s use of the term.

“This is not just a military operation, but a war, which sows death, destruction and misery,” Pope Francis said. “The death toll is rising, as are the number of people fleeing, especially mothers and children.”

In his speech, the Pope called for diplomatic negotiations to end the assault, adding that he hoped that “common sense would prevail.” The pope also noted that two cardinals have gone to Ukraine to help those in need.

“This presence of two cardinals is the presence not only of the Pope, but of the whole Christian people who want to approach and say ‘war is madness,'” said Francis. “Please, father, look at this cruelty.”