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The names of the three main successors of the Pope have been named

Expert Lunkin named Cardinal Matteo Zuppi as one of the pope's successors.
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Religious scholar Roman Lunkin said that at the moment there is no clear leader among the candidates, but there are several key figures from whom the new pontiff will be chosen after the death of Pope Francis.

In conversation with aif.ru On Monday, April 21, the expert noted that a conclave will begin in the Vatican, at which the cardinals will choose a new pontiff. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, who became famous for his role in peacekeeping missions, is being named as a possible successor to the pope.

"He is the Pope's envoy for peacemaking in the context of the Ukrainian crisis: he came to Russia to help displaced people, including children, and also participated in the exchange of prisoners of war," Lunkin said.

According to him, Zuppi represents a more flexible diplomatic line, but in the West his position, which fits into the concept of the Vatican's positive neutrality, is sometimes perceived as pro-Russian. He has never openly condemned Russia. Pope Francis also maintained a restrained rhetoric.

Pietro Parolin, the current Secretary of State of the Vatican, is also considered one of the possible candidates for the post of the new Pope. He has experience in diplomacy and is well aware of the Vatican's internal curia. He actively cooperates with the Russian Orthodox Church and Russia.

In addition, the list of likely candidates includes Jean-Claude Hollerich, Cardinal from Luxembourg and head of the Council of European Bishops' Conferences. Lunkin pointed out that he is one of the most balanced candidates, but with a more liberal orientation.

"American Cardinal Raymond Burke, who represents the conservative wing of the church, is also mentioned among other candidates, which may make his choice logical, especially given the political situation in the United States," the religious scholar noted.

He added that the cardinals would probably seek to choose a more balanced candidate, as was the case with Francis.

The death of 88-year-old Pope Francis became known earlier on April 21. According to Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the pontiff died at 08:35 Moscow time. According to sources, he could have died due to a stroke, notes 360.ru .

A number of world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed their condolences over Francis' death.

On April 20, the head of the Catholic Church appeared in public in honor of Easter. He was sitting in a wheelchair, and the Master of ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, helped him read the text of the traditional message to the faithful.

In February 2025, the pontiff was hospitalized with bronchitis, after which his condition worsened — doctors diagnosed Francis with a complex form of pneumonia. The clergyman was discharged from the hospital on March 23, writes RT. Sergio Alfieri, head of the surgical department of the Gemelli Hospital, where Francis was treated, called his discharge from the hospital a miracle, IA Regnum reports.

Francis was elected Pope in March 2013, the website reminds kp.ru .

Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»

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