In an interview with a U.S. network, Pope Francis expressed his deep concern over the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Emphasizing the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions, he urged warring nations to cease hostilities and engage in negotiations to end the bloodshed. The Pope condemned the devastating impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on civilians in Gaza, highlighting the food scarcity and humanitarian crisis faced by its residents. He revealed that he had been in regular contact with contacts in Gaza, who informed him of the dire situation on the ground. Pope Francis also addressed the toll that the prolonged conflict in Ukraine has taken on children, expressing concern that they had lost the ability to smile due to the trauma they had endured. He appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war and pursue peaceful negotiations.