In Christmas message, Pope calls for Ukraine-Russia talks

 Reuters reports.

In his Christmas address, Urbi et Orbi (to the city and the world), Francis directly referenced the Ukrainian conflict, urging the "courage needed to open doors for negotiations."

Speaking to thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square, the Pope said, "May the sound of arms be silenced in war-torn Ukraine!"

He also called for "gestures of dialogue and encounter, in order to achieve a just and lasting peace."

On December 22, Pope Francis asked for prayers for a ceasefire on all battlefronts, including Ukraine, during Christmas.

"Suffering Ukraine continues to endure shelling of cities, which sometimes damages schools, hospitals, and places of worship. Let the weapons be silenced, and let Christmas carols ring out! Let us pray for a Christmas ceasefire on all battlefronts—in the Holy Land, in Ukraine, across the Middle East, and around the world," he said.

• On December 24 and into Christmas Day, December 25, the Russian army launched Shahed attack drones and missiles on Ukrainian territory. 
• Due to Russia’s massive strikes, Ukrenergo implemented electricity consumption restrictions in several regions of Ukraine.
• On the morning of December 25, the Russian army conducted a massive attack on critical infrastructure in Ukraine, severely damaging DTEK's thermal power plant equipment.
• Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, described the attack on December 25 as Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s response to those advocating for a Christmas truce.