As the Easter ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine came to a quiet end on April 21, so too did the life of Pope Francis—an event that, ironically, briefly paused the war’s bitter rhythm for a moment of reflection.
Even as Moscow quickly resumed military operations following the truce’s expiration, Russian President Vladimir Putin took a step back to honor the late pontiff. In a formal telegram shared by the Kremlin, Putin extended his “deepest condolences,” describing Francis as a figure who played a vital role in fostering dialogue between the Vatican, the Russian Orthodox Church, and even the Kremlin itself.
Despite their complicated relationship—marked by ideological friction and the pope’s vocal criticism of Russia’s war in Ukraine—Putin acknowledged their personal ties. The two leaders met three times in person, and, according to Russian media, Putin made it a tradition to call Francis every March to commemorate his rise to the papacy.
Putin described the pope’s memory as one he would “forever preserve,” signaling a rare moment of reverence amid political tensions. In a symbolic gesture of respect, the Russian Orthodox Church announced it would send a senior delegation to attend the pope’s funeral in Vatican City.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky also paid tribute, taking to social media to share heartfelt condolences. Writing on X, he praised Pope Francis as a beacon of unity and compassion, someone who offered hope through prayer and stood firmly in support of Ukraine’s pursuit of peace.
“Millions are mourning,” Zelensky wrote. “He prayed for Ukraine. He prayed for peace. And now, we mourn alongside Catholics and Christians everywhere who found comfort in his voice.”
The pope’s passing has, if only briefly, quieted political divides as world leaders reflect on the legacy of a man who, even in war, never stopped preaching peace.
