Pope urges the pursuit of 'bold paths towards peace' for Ukraine
As he embarked on a five-day visit to Portugal for a significant Catholic youth festival, Pope Francis encouraged Europe to seek "brave pathways to peace" in order to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
The 86-year-old pontiff has consistently advocated for peace in Ukraine, actively aiming to mediate, although his endeavors have yet to produce outcomes. He has faced criticism for not explicitly attributing blame to Russia for the ongoing conflict.
"Amid the tempests of history, as we navigate the waters, we feel the imperative for resolute journeys towards peace," he remarked during an address to dignitaries and diplomats at Lisbon's riverside Belem Cultural Centre.
"Cherishing a profound affection for Europe and embodying the spirit of dialogue that characterizes this continent, we might pose the question: 'Where is your course set, if you do not exhibit to the world the avenues of peace, innovative pathways for resolving the Ukrainian conflict?'"
Upon his arrival in a wheelchair to deliver the speech, Francis garnered a standing ovation. His discourse was interwoven with allusions to Portuguese literature and music.
He arrived in Lisbon to partake in World Youth Day, an annual event comprising a week of religious, cultural, and celebratory activities, hosted approximately every three years in diverse cities.
Organizers anticipate the participation of one million individuals hailing from over 200 countries.
Being the first Latin American pope, Francis expressed his aspiration for this year's occasion to catalyze a "drive toward universal openness" for Europe.
"Europe, in its true essence, is indispensable for the world. It plays the pivotal role of a bridge and a peacemaker in its eastern regions, the Mediterranean, Africa, and the Middle East," he asserted.
The pope, renowned for his emphasis on environmental preservation, also raised concerns regarding escalating ocean warming and pollution, thereby heightening climate-related hazards.
"We are converting vast reservoirs of life into repositories for plastic waste," he highlighted. "How can we profess faith in the youth if we fail to provide them with wholesome spaces to shape the future?"
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