The pope, who turned 88 Dec. 17, mostly uses a wheelchair and presides over rather than concelebrates most public liturgies.

Francis, who has been pope since 2013, was criticized by Ukrainian officials this year when he said the country should have the courage of the "white flag" to negotiate an end to the war with Russia.

Pope Francis has called for a “negotiation ... In the past the pope has even suggested Ukraine should have the “courage of the white flag,” remarks that were criticized by Kyiv, although ...

Francis, who has been pope since 2013, was criticised by Ukrainian officials this year when he said the country should have the courage of the "white flag" to negotiate an end to the war with Russia.