With deep sorrow, we announce the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church. This information has been confirmed by Reuters, citing a statement from the official Vatican channel.

He was 88 years old and recently suffered from severe bilateral pneumonia.

«Dear brothers and sisters, it is with great sadness that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,» – quotes Cardinal Kevin Farrell as reported by Reuters.

«This morning at 7:35 AM, Bishop of Rome Francis returned home to the Father,» the Cardinal noted.

Thus, as emphasized by Reuters, an often controversial papacy marked by division and tension has come to an end, as Francis sought to reform one of the world's largest religious organizations.

Earlier, Ukrinform reported that 88-year-old Pope Francis was hospitalized at the Roman hospital «Gemelli» due to a severe respiratory infection on February 14.

Initially, he was treated for bronchitis, but later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia.

He spent several weeks in the hospital, and this health decline was the most serious during his 12 years of papacy.

After leaving the hospital on March 23 and returning to the Vatican, the Holy See held only a few public appearances. He missed significant services on Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

On Sunday, April 20, Pope Francis had a brief private meeting with U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance.

Also, on Easter Sunday, the pontiff appeared before the public to bless thousands gathered for mass in St. Peter's Square.