Pope Francis, the 88-year-old Catholic church leader, remains in critical condition but has not experienced any further respiratory crises, according to the Vatican’s latest health update on Sunday.
The pontiff is being treated for a kidney problem alongside his respiratory issues, with the Vatican describing it as “currently under control.” Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital earlier this month with bronchitis symptoms, and tests revealed a complex clinical picture that led to pneumonia in both lungs.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis expressed gratitude for medical care and warm wishes received from around the world. He thanked healthcare professionals for their attention and noted his appreciation for the letters and drawings from children, which brought him comfort during his recovery.
Pope Francis also used his statement to address global issues, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which will mark its third anniversary on Monday. The pontiff called for peace in Palestine, Israel, and throughout the Middle East, as well as Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan. He invited world leaders to remember the victims of armed conflicts and pray for peace.
The Vatican provided regular updates on Pope Francis’s condition over the weekend, with Saturday’s update indicating an “asthma-like respiratory crisis” before Sunday’s statement revealed no further respiratory issues.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/02/24/pope-francis-hospital-critical-message