INTERNATIONAL: Pope Francis on Sunday ,March 6, has rejected Russia's assertion that it is carrying out "a special military operation" in Ukraine, saying the country was being battered by war.

"In Ukraine rivers of blood and tears are flowing. This is not only a military operation but a war which sows death, destruction and misery," the pope has said in his weekly address to crowds gathered in St. Peter's Square.

However, as has been the case throughout the 11-day conflict, Pope Francis did not publicly condemn Russia by name for its invasion.

Instead, he has repeated his appeal for peace, the creation of humanitarian corridors and a return to negotiations.

"In that martyred country the need for humanitarian assistance is growing by the hour," the pope has said, speaking from a window overlooking the square. "Let common sense prevail, let us return to the respect of international law."

There were many more people than normal have gathered infront of St. Peter's Basilica for the pope's Sunday appearance, with some holding aloft multi-coloured peace flags as well as the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine.

"The Holy See is willing to do all everything to put itself at the service of peace," the pope has said, adding that two Roman Catholic cardinals had gone to Ukraine to help those in need.

"War is madness, please stop," the pope said.

^{PHOTO:  POPE FRANCIS APPEARING AT WINDOW OF PAPAL APARTMENTS OVERLOOKING ST. PETER'S SQUARE, POPE PRAYING FOR UKRAINE, POPE SAYING UKRAINE CONFLICT IS NOT A MILITARY OPERATION BUT A WAR}