Pope Francis is currently resting due to flu-like illness, and the morning audience has been cancelled as a precaution. This update was provided by the Holy See Press Office. TASS reported the situation as well.
The official brief notes that while flu symptoms persist, there is no fever at this time. For safety reasons, the morning audience will not be held, and no selection of participants will take place before the Pope on this schedule.
Earlier events on February 24 saw participants who had planned to meet the Pope disappointed when the engagement was cancelled as a result of the Pope’s illness. Restrictions taken last week mirrored this pause in the timetable, and while the expectation had been set for a resumption on February 24, the gathering did not take place.
On February 22, the Pope spoke about a new initiative aimed at resolving the situation in Ukraine. He proposed that agreements be signed to address the ongoing dispute surrounding the tomb of the Apostle Peter in the Vatican’s principal cathedral, or the relics of the Apostle Paul housed in the Basilica of San Paolo fuori le Mura in Rome. He indicated his willingness to personally affix his signature to such instruments as a guarantor.
It was previously acknowledged that the Pope views religious persecution against the Ukrainian Orthodox Church with strong disapproval, underscoring his concern for dialogue and unity across Christian communities in the region. The broader context points to hopes for renewed talks and a peaceful path forward, alongside careful attention to religious freedoms and the protection of sacred sites.