It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Pope Francis, the first leader of the Roman Catholic Church from Latin America. This has been confirmed by Reuters, referencing an official statement from the Vatican.

He was 88 years old and had recently suffered from severe pneumonia.

«Dear brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,» – quotes Reuters Cardinal Kevin Farrell from a broadcast on Vatican Television.

«This morning at 7:35, Bishop of Rome Francis returned home to the Father,» - noted the cardinal.

Thus, as Reuters emphasizes, an often tumultuous papacy characterized by division and tension has come to an end, as Francis sought to reform one of the largest religious organizations in the world.

Earlier, Ukrinform reported that the 88-year-old Pope Francis was hospitalized on February 14 due to a severe respiratory infection at the Gemelli hospital in Rome.

Initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.

He spent several weeks in the hospital, and this deterioration in his health was the most serious in his 12-year papacy.

After returning to the Vatican on March 23, the Holy Father made only a few public appearances. He missed important services on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

On Sunday, April 20, the Pope had a brief private meeting with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance.

Additionally, on Easter Sunday, the pontiff appeared before thousands gathered for Mass in St. Peter's Square to bless them.