Pope calls for Ukraine ceasefire, says all parties should avert escalation

(ANSA) - ROME, NOV 16 - Pope Francis on Wednesday called for a ceasefire in Ukraine and said all parties should avert an escalation of the conflict after a missile, believed to have been a Ukrainian defence projectile, killed two people in Poland Tuesday evening.
    "I learned with sorrow and with concern the news of a new and even stronger missile attack on Ukraine that caused deaths and damage to many civilian infrastructures, Francis said after a day in which Russia rained almost 90 missiles onto Ukraine.
    "Let us pray that the Lord will convert the hearts of those who are still betting on war and make the desire for peace prevail for the tormented Ukraine, to avoid any escalation and open the way to ceasefire and dialogue".
    The pope also said he was praying for the six victims of the terror attack in Istanbul at the weekend.
    "I raise my prayers for the innocent victims of the terrorist attack that took place in recent days in Istanbul", Francis said at the end of his weekly general audience. (ANSA).