Ukraine's Catholic Bishops Express Discomfort Over Pope's Praise for Russia's Imperial Past

Ukrainian Greek Catholic bishops expressed their pain to Pope Francis over his praise for Russia's imperial past, stating that such statements and gestures are difficult for the Ukrainian people who are currently struggling for their dignity and independence. The bishops met with the pope for nearly two hours, discussing their concerns about the Vatican's diplomatic neutrality in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. While thanking Francis for his support, the bishops emphasized the sensitivity of his words as the universal voice of truth and justice. The pope acknowledged their concerns and expressed his pain for the sense of powerlessness felt in war, dedicating the month of October to prayers for peace in Ukraine. The Vatican defended the pope's efforts and initiatives to help bring an end to the ongoing tragedy and ensure a just and stable peace through negotiation.