Pope says Holy See ready to facilitate prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine

Pope Francis said during Sunday prayers with pilgrims at the Vatican on 12 May that the Holy See is ready to facilitate a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia. This was reported by Vatican News.

During the prayer, Pope Francis repeated the call he made during Easter Week for a general exchange of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, called for prayers for peace, and also congratulated all mothers on Mother's Day.

At a time when we celebrate the Ascension of the Risen Lord, who gives us freedom and wants us to be free, I renew my call for a general exchange of all prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, assuring the readiness of the Holy See to facilitate any effort in this direction, especially for the seriously wounded and sick," Pope Francis urged.

He called for continued prayers for peace in Ukraine, in Palestine, in Israel and in Myanmar.

The Pope also did not forget that on the second Sunday of May, Mother's Day is celebrated in many parts of the world.

Today Mother's Day is celebrated in many countries, let us remember with gratitude all mothers, and let us pray for mothers who have gone to heaven. And let us entrust mothers under the protection of Mary, our Heavenly Mother. And to all mothers, a heartfelt applause! - urged Pope Francis.