(August 18, 2008)--Pope Benedict has weighed in on the crisis in Georgia, calling for the creation of a humanitarian corridor past Russian troops.
Benedict told pilgrims at his summer retreat near Rome that the corridor is needed "so that the dead, still abandoned, can receive dignified burial, the wounded can be properly treated, and those who want to reach their loved ones can do so."
Benedict expressed concern about ethnic minorities caught up in the conflict.
He also lamented the rise of racism in some countries, and urged Christians to help society combat intolerance toward foreigners.
On Monday, Russia said its military has begun to withdraw from the conflict-zone in Georgia, but officials haven't said exactly where troops and tanks will continue to operate under the cease-fire that is ending days of fighting in Georgia.
A Russian general says forces are leaving the city of Gori, which sits on Georgia's main east-west highway, but earlier in the day, Russian forces around the city appeared to be solidifying their positions.
Vatican Web Site
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