Pope Francis attends his weekly General Audience at the Paul VI Hall on August 09, 2023 in Vatican City, Vatican.
Pope Francis.
  • Pope Francis said Ukraine should have the 'courage of the white flag' and negotiate with Russia.
  • This is not the first time the pontiff has been criticized for his remarks on the war.
  • Peace talks remain a long way off for both sides. 

Pope Francis has sparked controversy after saying Ukraine should have the "courage of the white flag" and negotiate an end to the war with Russia.

In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI recorded last month, the head of the Catholic Church said: "When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, it is necessary to have the courage to negotiate."