Pope Francis, who has been the head of the Catholic Church for 12 years and 4 months, has frequently been the subject of controversy and polemics. His statements on Russia's war against Ukraine, as well as his position on gays in seminars, sparked broad discussions and discontent among many people.
Statements on Russia's War Against Ukraine
In May 2022, 3 months after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Pope Francis stated in an interview with the paper "Corriere della Sera" that it was possible that "the barking of NATO at the door of Russia" prompted Putin to start a war. This message sparked a wave of comments and dissatisfaction from a large group of publicists who accused the pope of naivety, ineptness, and political infantilism. In the discussion there were besides voices in defence of Francis, who, in the opinion of the pope born in Argentina, did not realize Europe, where his ancestors came from.
Pope’s Explanations
In consequence to the controversy, Pope Francis explained that he heard these words from the leader of the state, whom he met 2 months before the outbreak of the war. During his conversation with Jesuit media editors from various countries, the pope said that this leader was afraid about NATO's actions and feared that they could lead to war. The Pope added that he is not in favour of Putin, but is opposed to bringing complexity to separate between good and bad without reflection on roots and interests that are very complicated.
Controversy around Reflections during the Cross Way
In the first weeks of the war, Russia's war against Ukraine sparked controversy about the Vatican's message that consideration during the Cross Road in Colosseum would be written jointly by Ukrainian and Russian women working together in a infirmary in Rome. The text of the deliberations was completely changed in the face of protests and concerns of Ukraine's Ukrainian community and embassy at the Holy See.
Pope on “Big Russia”
In 2023 Pope Francis said during the video connection with young Russian Catholics that the Russians are heirs of large Russia: large Russia of saints, rulers, large Russia of Peter I, Catherine II, this empire – a great, enlightened country of large culture and large humanity. The Pope explained that he did not mean imperialism erstwhile he spoke of "great Russia", but a legacy that developed in art and literature.
Pope's words about negotiations
In March 2024 Pope Francis said in an interview with Swiss tv that the stronger is the 1 who sees the situation, who thinks of the nation, who has the courage of the white flag to negotiate. The phrase "white flag" was met with criticism, besides from European politicians who considered it an incentive to surrender.
Pope about gays in seminars
Pope Francis caused controversy erstwhile during a closed gathering with Italian bishops he was to say that there was besides much gayness in clergy seminars. The Pope utilized the strong Italian word “frociaggine” and appealed for more selection in accepting candidates for the seminary. The Vatican spokesperson stated that the Pope never intended to insult or talk homophobicly and directs his apology to those who were offended.
It is worth noting that Pope Francis is simply a figure that evokes many controversy and polemics. His statements and actions are frequently interpreted differently, leading to discussion and discontent among many people. Nevertheless, the Pope remains an crucial figure in the world, which has a large influence on the Catholic Church and the global community.
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Pope Francis: Controversies and Polemics