Vatican City: As Christmas nears, Pope Francis is once again reaching out to the suffering people of Ukraine, reinforcing his solidarity with those enduring the devastation of war. In the days leading up to Christmas, the Pope has dispatched Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Service of Charity, to bring much-needed medical assistance to the war-torn country.

A press release announcing the mission states, “Every day, Pope Francis prays for peace in this conflict-ravaged land, and in a tangible way, he wishes to stand with the Ukrainian people during this Christmas season, commemorating the Birth of Jesus.”

Cardinal Krajewski’s mission includes delivering a mobile hospital, a large camper van capable of performing surgeries, and six ultrasound scanners that will be donated to hospitals damaged in the ongoing conflict. The Vatican’s charitable arm highlighted that the Papal Almoner will visit several Ukrainian communities, offering prayers of hope and solidarity, with the aim of opening “the door of hope” in the hearts of those affected by the war.

Cardinal Krajewski has long been at the forefront of the Vatican’s humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. Earlier this year, the Dicastery organized a large convoy to the eastern region of Kharkiv, delivering food, baby supplies, hygiene products, clothing, and essential medicines to those most in need.

This mission is part of the Pope’s continued commitment to providing support to Ukraine, following previous visits by Cardinal Krajewski, including one in June to the city of Ternopil, where he delivered medical supplies, an ambulance equipped as a mobile ICU, and life-saving medications from the Vatican Pharmacy and Rome's Gemelli hospital.

Through these acts of charity, Pope Francis and the Vatican continue to stand with the people of Ukraine, offering both material aid and spiritual support as they face the hardships of war.