Online Public Relations Thoughts

The pope has not condemned Russia for its invasion of Ukraine but he has called for humanitarian assistance, a cease-fire and return to negotiations.  Local bishops aren't waiting for him to raise his voice.  They have named Putin and laid the blame on him. Why silence?  The Vatican prefers to work as a mediator quietly but in so doing its stance puts it in a communications bind.  It looks as if the pope is not faulting Russia for its invasion, and perception is important.  This puts Francis in an untenable position on the world stage.  Who is going to listen to him?  Putin certainly isn't and the allies will ignore him for being neutral.  Sometimes one must declare a position and this is one.