Pope Francis helped Ukrainians achieve peace according to his beliefs - Ukraine's Metropolitan

Epiphany said that he received today's news of Francis' passing with heartfelt sorrow.

According to Ukraine's Metropolitan, as the Head of the Roman Catholic Church, Francis dedicated his life to serving God, spreading the Christian faith, and initiating many humanitarian efforts.

Epiphany noted that during their personal meetings, Francis expressed sincere concern for the fate of Ukrainians suffering from Russian aggression. Ukraine's Metropolitan also emphasized the significance of the Pope's efforts and personal assistance in matters of releasing Ukrainian prisoners of war, as well as returning children deported by the Russian authorities back to Ukraine.

"The late Pontiff strove, according to his beliefs, to help Ukrainians achieve peace and always called for prayers for this," the statement says.

In particular, yesterday in his Easter address, Francis again mentioned "Ukraine, torn by war," expressing hope for the establishment of a just and lasting peace.

"I extend heartfelt condolences to all Catholics, the episcopate, and the entire Roman Catholic Church in Ukraine, as well as the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, who have lost their leader," Epiphany added.

Francis and Ukraine

Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. He was the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church and had held this position since March 13, 2013.

Before the war, he was quite popular in Ukraine - over 40% of Ukrainians approved of him. No surveys were conducted during the war.

Francis' attitude toward Russia's invasion of Ukraine was perceived

ambiguously. He consistently refused to mention Russia in the context of the war, called for peace, and advised Ukraine to raise a "white flag."

Metropolitan Epiphany is the undisputed leader in public trust among religious hierarchs in Ukraine.