World

Pope calls for dialogue in Ukraine to resolve its crisis

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Pope Francis delivers his message during the Angelus prayer from his studio window overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Pope Francis is urging all segments of Ukrainian society to work to overcome incomprehension and build a future together. Francis spoke of what he called Ukraine's "delicate" situation after he greeted thousands of people in St. Peter's Square for his traditional Sunday midday appearance. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) (The Associated Press)

Pope Francis blesses faithful during the Angelus prayer from his studio window overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Pope Francis is urging all segments of Ukrainian society to work to overcome incomprehension and build a future together. Francis spoke of what he called Ukraine's "delicate" situation after he greeted thousands of people in St. Peter's Square for his traditional Sunday midday appearance. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) (The Associated Press)

Pope Francis is partially seen through a statue as he delivers his message during the Angelus prayer from his studio window overlooking St. Peter's Square at the Vatican, Sunday, March 2, 2014. Pope Francis is urging all segments of Ukrainian society to work to overcome incomprehension and build a future together. Francis spoke of what he called Ukraine's "delicate" situation after he greeted thousands of people in St. Peter's Square for his traditional Sunday midday appearance. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) (The Associated Press)

Pope Francis is urging world leaders to promote dialogue as a way of resolving the crisis in Ukraine.

Speaking to thousands of people in St. Peter's Square during his traditional Sunday midday appearance, he said: "I am making a heartfelt appeal to the international community: support every initiative for dialogue and harmony."

Francis urged all segments of Ukrainian society to work together to overcome their misunderstandings and build a future together.

Russian forces have effectively seized control of Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula after months of anti-government protests drove its pro-Moscow president out of the country.