Pope Francis prayed for Ukrainians and Russians and urged 'brothers' to understand each other.

Pope Francis visited the French island of Corsica for the first Time. There he prayed for peace, mentioning not only Ukrainians but also Russians. His words are quoted by Vatican News.

As the resource indicates, Pope Francis prayed for 'the long-awaited peace for the Ukrainian people and the Russian people'. He stated: 'They are brothers, cousins. May they understand each other! War is always a defeat. Peace to the whole world!'

Only recently, the Holy Father called on the international community not to cease praying for peace throughout the world and to stop fire 'on all fronts' until Christmas.

Previously, he often mentioned the Ukrainian people in his prayers and repeatedly met with Ukrainian officials. In particular, in October, Pope Francis met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and in November, the First Lady Olena Zelenska met with him.

Earlier, Epiphaniy and Pope Francis met in the Vatican and exchanged gifts.

Pope Francis also received a new electric G-Class convertible from the CEO of Mercedes-Benz.

It is noted that on October 24, Pope Francis published his fourth encyclical titled Dilexit Nos, which addresses the theme of human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus Christ.

Furthermore, Pope Francis stated that the Ukrainian law banning the activities of religious organizations linked to Russia in Ukraine effectively prevents people from praying 'in the church they consider their own'.