The pope has said the Russian invasion of Ukraine was partly “provoked” by NATO, but has denied support for President Putin, saying he denounced the “cruelty” of Russian soldiers.
In an interview with Catholic publications, the Pope downplayed claims in April that NATO’s expansion into Eastern Europe “facilitated” Russian anger.
Francis said a “very wise” head of state had visited him a few months before the war and told him he was “very concerned about how NATO works.” He added that the leader told him: “They are barking at the gates of Russia. And they do not understand that the Russians are imperial and will not allow any foreign power to approach them.
He said: “That head of state knew how