America News Agency

It was reported that Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of Catholics and the Head of the Vatican State, passed away this morning.

Russian President Vladimir Putin shared a condolence message.

In his message, Putin stated: "Pope Francis was highly respected worldwide as a faithful servant of Christian teachings, a wise spiritual leader, a statesman, and a consistent advocate of the noble values of humanism and justice. Throughout his years as Pope, he actively promoted dialogue between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church, as well as constructive cooperation between Russia and the Vatican. I had the opportunity to meet with this exceptional man on several occasions, and I will always remember him with deep affection and respect."