Reports: Pope may meet Russian patriarch in Jerusalem, discuss Russia-Ukraine war
The pope has called for an Easter truce in Ukraine
The Pope, who is scheduled to visit Lebanon and Jordan in June, might also stop in Jerusalem to speak with Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill, who has heavily supported Moscow in the war against Ukraine.
Reuters reported that two sources said the Vatican is "studying the possibility of extending Pope Francis' trip" to include Jerusalem.
Kirill termed the war a "special military operation" in Ukraine.
"Let the Lord help us unite during this difficult time for our Fatherland, including around the authorities," Kirill was quoted as saying at a sermon in Moscow, according to the Interfax news agency.
On the other hand, Francis has called it a war, using words such as invasion, aggression and atrocities. He also called for an Easter truce in Ukraine, as did Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan's Purse – an Evangelical humanitarian aid outreach currently operating in Ukraine.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.
