The Pope called for dialogue and forgiveness during his conversation with young Ukrainians.

Pope Francis engaged with young Ukrainians and answered their questions. The pontiff called for patriotism and forgiveness of enemies.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine citing Vatican News.

The first question was posed to the Pope by 21-year-old teacher Ilyana Dobra from Uzhhorod. She asked whether it is worth dying for one’s country and how to strengthen faith in the protection of life when it is devalued around the world.

"War always destroys. The remedy for this is dialogue: always, with each other, even with those who oppose us. Please, never tire of dialogue. Peace is built through dialogue. True, sometimes dialogue is impossible due to the stubbornness of some, but we must always make an effort," the pontiff replied.

In turn, 27-year-old Yulia asked the Pope how to see the world when genocide against the Ukrainian people is occurring. In response, the pontiff condemned the devastating consequences of war.

"War brings hunger. Every evening I call a parish in Gaza, and they tell me that they often go hungry. War not only causes hunger - it kills," he added.

Another question was posed to the pontiff by 35-year-old Tatiana, who currently lives in Chicago. She inquired how Ukrainians can forgive and teach their children to forgive when the war "leaves deep wounds in hearts."

"Forgiveness is one of the hardest things. It is difficult for everyone, even for me. But one thought helps me: I must forgive just as I have been forgiven. Each of us should remember how we were forgiven. The art of forgiveness is not easy, but we must move forward and always forgive," emphasized the Pope.

The Pope also urged young Ukrainians to embrace patriotism.

"Every young person has their own mission. In difficult times, young people must carry the 'spirit of the homeland.' Your homeland is wounded by war, but love it. Love for one’s homeland is beautiful," he noted.

What Pope Francis said about the war

Recall that Pope Francis has repeatedly made ambiguous statements regarding Russia's war against Ukraine. In particular, he has spoken about the need to show "the courage to raise the white flag" and start negotiations.

Recently, the pontiff referred to Ukrainians and Russians as "cousins" and noted that the peoples need to "find common ground."