Paying Tribute To Journalists Who Died In Ukraine, Pope Francis: Your Work For Good

JAKARTA - Pope Francis paid tribute on Sunday to journalists who died during the Ukraine war, saying he hoped God would reward them for serving the common good whichever side they were on.

Speaking to reporters aboard the plane returning from Malta, Pope Francis also reiterated his readiness to visit the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv while deciding whether it is feasible.

"I would like to extend my condolences to your fallen comrades, regardless of which side they came from," he said.

"Your work is work for the common good. They have fallen into the service of good information. Do not forget that they are courageous. I pray for them, I pray that God will appreciate their work," the Pope continued.

It is known that at least six journalists have been killed since Russian troops invaded Ukraine at the end of February 24.

Pope Francis added that he also gets information about Ukraine, in telephone contact every few days with Rome-based Argentine journalist Elisabetta Piqué, a personal friend who has covered the war since its inception.

Earlier, during his trip to Malta on Saturday, Pope Francis said there was an opportunity for him to travel to Kyiv, do what could be done for peace. "I am willing to do all that can be done. The Holy See is doing everything on the diplomatic side. For reasons of prudence and secrecy, we can't publish everything," he said on the plane.

"I don't know if it (the trip to Ukraine) is doable, if it's convenient to do and if it's for good, it's all in the air."

He said he had spoken twice with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky since the war began, but pointed out that the last time he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin was at the start of the year.

During Saturday's address, Pope Francis implicitly criticized Putin for the invasion, saying a "ruler" was fomenting conflict for nationalist interests.

Pope Francis strongly condemns what he calls "unjustified aggression" and denounces "cruelty," but he only mentions Russia directly in prayer, such as during a special global event for peace on March 25.