Who will be the next pontiff? What is known about the main candidates.

The news of the death of Pope Francis, who led the Catholic Church since 2013, has caused an uproar worldwide. He was known for his reformist activities aimed at modernizing the Church as well as his active participation in addressing global social and environmental issues. Now, the Catholic community faces the question: who will become the next head of the Vatican?

After the death of the Pope, cardinals from around the world gather in the Sistine Chapel to conduct a

conclave - a secret vote that will determine the new pontiff.

Possible candidates

Among the potential successors to Francis, several prominent cardinals are named:

• Pietro Parolin (Italy) - Secretary of State of the Vatican, known for his diplomatic activities and moderate views.
• Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Congo) - President of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa, who actively advocates traditional values.
• Wim Eijk (Netherlands) - one of the most conservative cardinals, known for his hardline positions on marriage and family issues.
• Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) - a cardinal representing the Asian region with significant support among the youth.
• Peter Erdő (Hungary) - an influential cardinal who previously led the Council of European Bishops' Conferences.
• Raymond Burke (USA) - an advocate of the Latin Mass and a public critic of Pope Francis' liberal tendencies.
• Mario Grech (Malta) - Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, known for his progressive views and active participation in Francis' reforms.
• Matteo Zuppi (Italy) - Archbishop of Bologna, known for his diplomatic skills and commitment to interfaith dialogue.

The new pontiff may continue Francis' course of reforming the Church or return to more conservative principles. The choice of a successor will be an important signal for the Catholic community and the world, determining the direction of church development for the coming years.

Ukrainians have come to regard some of Pope Francis' actions as exhibiting a somewhat pro-Russian stance; the reality is somewhat different. The pontiff has indeed 'raised' some figures that could be useful to us. Of course, it all depends on whether these 'figures' can ascend the so-called career ladder.

Pope Francis died on April 21. He was suffering from bilateral pneumonia. It is noted that the pontiff passed away at 7:35 AM local Time.