Pope Francis has written to Vladimir Putin criticising world leaders for standing by while a "senseless massacre" unfolded in Syria.
© GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty ImagesPope Francis' push for a peaceful solution in Syria includes a four hour vigil to be held in St Peter's Square on Saturday evening
In a letter sent on Sept 4 to Mr Putin in his role of host of the G20 conference, and published on Thursday, Francis wrote: "It is regrettable that, from the very beginning of the conflict in Syria,
one-sided interests have prevailed and in fact hindered the search for a solution that would have avoided the senseless massacre now unfolding."
Through Mr Putin, Francis appealed to the G20 leaders gathering in Russia: "The leaders of the G20 cannot remain indifferent to the dramatic situation of the beloved Syrian people which has lasted far too long, and even risks bringing greater suffering to a region bitterly tested by strife and needful of peace.
"To the leaders present, to each and every one, I make a heartfelt appeal for them to help find ways to overcome the conflicting positions and to
lay aside the futile pursuit of a military solution."
He added: "Rather, let there be a renewed commitment to seek, with courage and determination, a peaceful solution through dialogue and negotiation of the parties, unanimously supported by the international community. Moreover, all governments have the moral duty to do everything possible to ensure humanitarian assistance to those suffering because of the conflict, both within and beyond the country's borders."
Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi denied claims made on Thursday by Argentinian newspaper
Clarin that Francis had contacted President Assad of Syria urging him to halt attacks in Syria. He also denied reports made by the paper that Francis had personally contacted the US White House to urge the calling off of any planned attack on Syria.
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