Pope Francis has repeated his assertion that the world is already in a third world war. While speaking at an audience with pontifical representatives, on Thursday the pope claimed: “Unfortunately, Europe and the entire world are convulsed by a war of particular gravity.”

“The tempest of the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed various limitations on our daily lives and our pastoral activities,” the pope said. “Now it seems that the worst is over, and thanks be to God, we can meet again. But unfortunately, Europe and the entire world are convulsed by a war of particular gravity, in terms of the violation of international law the risks of nuclear escalation, and the grave economic and social consequences,” Pope Francis continued. “It is a ‘piecemeal’ third world war, to which you bear witness in the places where you carry out your mission.”

According to a report by The New York Post, the pope made a similar comment during his Aug. 31 general audience, where he acknowledged the anniversary of World War II’s dramatic beginnings.

Pope: The World Is ALREADY In A “Third World War”

“Tomorrow you will remember the anniversary of the outbreak of World War II, which so painfully marked the Polish nation,” the pope said before referencing the current era as the “third World War” and saying the overarching conflict will most likely play out piecemeal, unlike previous global wars, according to Vatican media.

“A few years ago, it occurred to me to say that we are experiencing a third world war fought piecemeal,” the pope told editors of news outlet La Civilta Cattolica back in June. “Today, for me, World War III has been declared.”

“What is before our eyes is a situation of world war, global interests, arms sales, and geopolitical appropriation, which is martyring a heroic people,” the pope told the outlet. The pope previously laid the blame for the war on weapons manufacturers and arms dealers, whom he claimed were happy to see their products tested in conflict.