Pope urges Russia, Ukraine to exchange prisoners in full

In his Easter Sunday blessing, Pope Francis called for a general exchange of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, as well as for ensuring access to humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip.

"My thoughts go especially to the victims of the many conflicts worldwide, beginning with those in Israel and Palestine, and in Ukraine. May the Risen Christ open a path of peace for the war-torn peoples of those regions. <…> Calling for respecting principles of international law, I hope for a general exchange of all prisoners between Russia and Ukraine - all for all," TASS quotes him as saying from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica in St. Peter’s Square in the presence of about 60,000 people.

The Pope also called for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and humanitarian access for the people of Gaza. He also called for the release of the hostages seized by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

He also encouraged the talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, urging that with the support of the international community, they can "pursue dialogue, assist the displaced, respect the places of worship of the various religious confessions, and arrive as soon as possible at a definitive peace agreement."

The pontiff recalled many other conflicts worldwide, noting that civilian population, especially children, suffer from conflicts and wars. "How much suffering we see in the eyes of the children," he said. "The children in those war zones have forgotten how to smile. With those eyes, they ask us: Why? Why all this death? Why all this destruction?"

"May the light of the Resurrection illuminate our minds, and convert our hearts, and make us aware of the value of every human life, which must be welcomed, protected and loved. A happy Easter to all!" he said.

Earlier, the 87-year-old pontiff conducted Sunday Easter Mass. On March 29, he skipped the Good Friday procession due to health problem and followed it online from his residence in Vatican City.