In his last speech, Pope called for "just and lasting peace" for Ukraine

In the Pope's Easter message, which became his last public speech, the pontiff called for peace in Ukraine. The full text of the message is published by Vatican News.

The message was announced on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, but the text was read from the loggia of St. Peter's Basilica by the Master of Ceremonies of Papal Liturgies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli. Francis I himself was nearby at that time.

"May the Risen One bring the Easter gift of peace to suffering Ukraine and encourage all parties involved to continue their efforts aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace," the Pope's message says.

The Pope's address also mentions a number of countries that are in a state of war or military conflict. Among them are Israel and Palestine, Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as Lebanon and Syria.

As previously reported, on Monday, April 21, Pope Francis I died in the Vatican. This was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church.