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No plans for Putin to attend Pope Francis’ funeral — Kremlin spokesman

According to Dmitry Peskov, no decision has been made yet on who will represent Russia at the ceremony

MOSCOW, April 22. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin does not plan to attend Pope Francis’ funeral, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"The president has no such plans," he said.

According to Peskov, no decision has been made yet on who will represent Russia at the ceremony. "I cannot confirm anything yet; the decision is still pending. We will provide an update once it is finalized," he added.

The pontiff’s funeral will be held on Saturday, April 26. A number of world leaders are expected to attend the ceremony. The presidents of Brazil, the United States and France have announced such plans. Representatives of various religions and churches will also gather for the funeral.

Pope Francis passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. A month ago, he was discharged from the hospital after a 40-day treatment for severe pneumonia. His doctors said later that the pontiff had twice reached the brink of death and was eventually prescribed to have complete rest for two months. However, he started to go for brief walks to visit St. Peter’s Basilica. On Easter Sunday, the pontiff took a popemobile for a tour of St. Peter’s Square, full of believers.

Pope Francis himself described a simplified rite for his funeral. He wished to be buried in the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which he always visited for prayers.

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Foreign policy Vladimir Putin Dmitry Peskov

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