Pope Francis warned against indifference on April 29 while thanking Hungary for taking in Ukrainians despite the anti-refugee policies of nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban. On his arrival on the three-day visit on April 28, the pope in his first speech stressed "the need for openness towards others," warning against "withdrawing into oneself." Hungary's government -- in a departure from its usual anti-refugee stand -- has welcomed those fleeing the war in neighboring Ukraine. But Orban's insistence on maintaining ties with Moscow puts off Ukrainians. Francis on April 29 further urged the need of "showing compassion toward all."
In Hungary, Pope Warns Against Indifference
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban (right) greets Pope Francis sitting beside Hungarian President Katalin Novak at a reception held in Buda Castle on April 28.