Pope Francis conveyed “his deepest sorrow” on Saturday over the phone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to a tweet from Ukraine‘s embassy to the Holy See (Vatican), as they spoke about Russia’s invasion of the country.

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“Today Pope Francis had a telephone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Holy Father expressed his deepest sorrow for the tragic events that are taking place in our country,” the embassy said. 

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In a tweet, Zelensky expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for his prayers, adding that “the Ukrainian people feel His Holiness’ spiritual support.”

“Thanked Pope Francis for praying for peace in Ukraine and a ceasefire. The Ukrainian people feel the spiritual support of His Holiness,” Zelensky tweeted.