Pope: Russia and Ukraine may exchange prisoners using "all for all" formula

The loggia of St. Peter's Cathedral, Pope Francis' Easter message. Photo: Vatican News video screenshot

The loggia of St. Peter's Cathedral, Pope Francis' Easter message. Photo: Vatican News video screenshot

Pope Francis proposed to Russia and Ukraine to exchange prisoners according to the "all for all" formula. The words of the pontiff are quoted by vaticannews.va, citing his traditional Easter message.

"Insisting on the observance of the principles of international law, I call for a common exchange of all detainees between Russia and Ukraine: all for all!" said the pope in the message "To the City and the World" (Urbi et Orbi) on the occasion of Easter.

He also called for an end to the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

"My thoughts are primarily directed to the victims of the numerous conflicts continuing in the world, starting with Israel and Palestine, as well as Ukraine. May the Risen Christ open the path of peace for the long-suffering peoples of these regions," the message of Pope Francis says.

As reported by the UOJ, the heads of the Christian Churches of the Holy Land called for an end to the war in Gaza.

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