Pope Francis, in his Christmas message, urged for peaceful negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

Pope Francis, in his traditional Christmas message on December 25th, addressed the war in Ukraine, urging for its cessation and negotiations for a just peace.

This was reported by Vatican News.

In his Christmas address, Francis directly mentioned the conflict and called for the "courage necessary to open the doors to negotiations."

Speaking from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica before thousands of people in the square below, the Pope said: "May the sounds of weapons fall silent in war-torn Ukraine!" He also called for "gestures of dialogue and meeting to achieve a just and lasting peace."

Pope Francis spoke somewhat more about events in the Middle East, where he also wished for "the weapons to fall silent," as well as the release of hostages and assistance to "populations suffering from hunger and war."

It is worth noting that Francis, who has held the papacy since 2013, faced criticism this year when he stated that Ukraine should have the courage to raise a "white flag" and begin negotiations to end the war with Russia.

Background. Earlier, Mind reported that Pope Francis stated in an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere Della Sera, published on Tuesday, that he requested a meeting in Moscow with Russian President Putin to try to stop the war in Ukraine, but has yet to receive a response.