Pope calles supply of weapons to Ukraine morally acceptable for self-defense

The Pontiff stated this at a press conference at the end of the summit of religious leaders in Kazakhstan.

"This is a political decision that can be moral, morally acceptable, if it is adopted under the conditions of morality," said the Pope.

"Self-defense is not only legal, but also a manifestation of love for the motherland. The one who does not defend himself, who does not defend anything, does not like it. Those who defend - love," Francis added.

He clarified that a decision to supply weapons can become immoral if his "intention is to provoke even more war or to sell weapons or get rid of weapons that are not needed."

Regarding the possible negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, the Pope emphasized the difficulties of the dialogue, but "it should not be dismissed."

"I would not rule out a dialogue with any state that is at war, even if it is the aggressor... Sometimes you have to conduct such a dialogue. You have to, although you may not want to," he said.