The Vatican announced Saturday that Pope Francis remains in critical condition at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital following a respiratory crisis that required blood transfusions.

As Pope Francis continued his treatment at Rome’s Gemelli hospital Sunday, he expressed gratitude to medical staff while marking the approaching third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in a prepared Angelus message.

Decorated candles and flowers are placed at the base of the statue of the late Pope John Paul II outside Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis is admitted for treatment, in Rome, Italy, February 23, 2025.