Pope Francis dies at 88 in Vatican residence

Tengrinews.kz - Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, according to Vatican News.

The pontiff passed away at his residence in the Vatican, Casa Santa Marta.

In late February, media reported a slight improvement in Pope Francis’ condition after concerns about his health had circulated.

On February 23, the Vatican announced that the Pope was in "critical condition," suffering from a “persistent asthma-like respiratory crisis." The press office later clarified that he had been diagnosed with mild kidney failure.

Doctors admitted Pope Francis to the hospital on February 14 for examinations and to continue treatment for bronchitis. It was later revealed that he had developed bilateral pneumonia.

The Pope, who had part of a lung removed in his youth, had been experiencing ongoing health issues in recent months, including prolonged bouts of bronchitis.