‘He Inspired Millions’: Ukraine and World Express Deep Sorrow over Death of Pope

The leaders of the EU and NATO, as well as the President and Parliament of Ukraine, have expressed their deepest condolences on the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on 21 April at the age of 88.

The Gaze reports on this with reference to social media.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted to the news of the death of Pope Francis, noting that millions of believers around the world are grieving. 

He noted on social media platform X that millions of believers around the world are grieving over the death of the pontiff. 

‘His life was dedicated to God, people and the Church. He knew how to give hope, alleviate suffering through prayer and promote unity. He prayed for the peace of Ukraine and Ukrainians. We mourn with Catholics and all Christians who relied on the spiritual support of Pope Francis. May he rest in peace!’ the President of Ukraine wrote.

The leadership of the Verkhovna Rada also received the news of the death of Pope Francis with deep sadness.

‘His earthly journey was an example of humility, compassion, and dedicated service to the Church and humanity. He has always been a voice for the marginalised and inspired millions to live the Gospel with courage and love. May the Lord rest his soul in peace,’ wrote Ruslan Stefanchuk, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada, in X.

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen noted on X that Francis' legacy of humility and love will continue to lead millions of people to a more just and peaceful world.

‘Today the world mourns the death of Pope Francis. He inspired millions, far beyond the Catholic Church, with his humility and pure love for those in need. My thoughts are with all those who are experiencing this profound loss. May they find comfort in the idea that Pope Francis‘ legacy will continue to lead us all towards a more just and peaceful world, capable of compassion,’ von der Leyen wrote.

President of the European Council Antonio Costa noted that Pope Francis was a man of deep compassion, paying attention to the global challenges of our time - migration, climate change, inequality and peace.

‘In his last message for the World Day of Peace, he proposed three actions that should lead to sustainable change - forgiveness of international debts, abolition of the death penalty and redirecting military spending to overcome hunger. May his ideas continue to lead us to a future full of hope,’ the President of the European Council wrote on the X network.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also joined in the condolences, noting that Pope Francis has inspired millions of people around the world with his commitment to peace and humility.

‘His commitment to peace and compassion has inspired millions. My deepest condolences to the Catholic community and to all those who have been touched by his humanity,’ Rutte wrote.