War in Ukraine diverts attention from the threat of famine – Pope ,
Pope Francis
KYIV. UkraineGate . 15 . August .2022 l World News
Pope Francis said the war in Ukraine had diverted attention from the problem of world hunger, and called for urgent food assistance to prevent famine in Somalia.
Citation
“People in this region who already live in very dangerous conditions are now in mortal danger due to drought,” Pope Francis said during a weekly speech in St. Peter’s Square.
“Unfortunately, the war (in Ukraine – ed.) has diverted attention, but these are goals that require maximum commitment — fighting hunger, health care, education,” he said.
Details
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) said it could officially declare famine in eight regions of Somalia next month if livestock continue to die, prices for basic goods rise and humanitarian aid will not reach the most vulnerable.
Francis told pilgrims and tourists in the square that he wanted to draw attention “to the serious humanitarian crisis that has hit Somalia and some areas of the border countries.” He expressed hope that the international community would be able to “respond effectively to this emergency.”
Previously
On August 7, Pope Francis welcomed the sailing of Ukrainian grain carriers previously blocked by Russia and said the breakthrough could be a model for dialogue to end the war in Ukraine.Source: UNNTags: Pope, Russia, Ukraine, famine, Africa, Somalia, war, food security
