Pope Francis congratulated Ukrainians with Independence Day and made appeal for peace

"I pray for your country in this difficult situation renewing my spiritual affinity with victims, their families and all those who suffer. I support the efforts that help the Ukrainian nation move forward in the spirit of peace and reunification," he wrote.

Pope Francis noted that he appeals to the Almighty God for a blessing of the President of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

Following the Angelus on Sunday, Pope Francis made a new appeal for peace in Ukraine. “With deep concern, I am following the conflict in eastern Ukraine, which has accelerated anew in these last weeks,” the Pope said. “I renew my appeal that the commitments undertaken to achieve peace might be respected; and that, with the help of organizations and persons of good will, there might be a response to the humanitarian emergency in the country.” The Holy Father concluded his appeal with the prayer, “May the Lord grant peace to Ukraine, which is preparing to celebrate tomorrow the national holiday [Independence Day]. May the Virgin Mary intercede for us!