Very weakened

Pope cannot even get into the Popemobile

The visibly weakened Pope did not manage to get into the Popemobile.(Bild: AP)

An illness officially described as a "mild flu" continues to make Pope Francis very ill. Although the 87-year-old Argentinian was able to hold a general audience in St. Peter's Square on Wednesday, his speech was read out by an adlatus. In addition, Francis was unable to get into the Popemobile (see video above).

Francis not only suffers from respiratory problems, but also from very limited mobility, as he was unable to climb the few stairs into his vehicle after the audience. Helpers escorted him to the Popemobile, the Pope grabbed the handrails, but his legs didn't really want to cooperate - Francis also has knee problems. In the end, the Argentinian was taken away from St. Peter's Square in his wheelchair.

The visibly weakened Pope was unable to get into the Popemobile.(Bild: AP)

In the end, the Pope had to be transported from St. Peter's Square in a wheelchair.(Bild: APA/AFP/Alberto PIZZOLI)

A week ago, the pontiff had once again had to go to hospital for treatment. The 87-year-old was taken to a clinic in Rome after the weekly general audience and examined there, according to the Vatican. According to reports, a computer tomography scan was carried out. However, the head of more than 1.4 billion Catholics was able to return to the Vatican after a short time.

Pope in interview: "Don't think about resigning"
Since suffering from partial pneumonia in November, which was treated with antibiotics, Francis has repeatedly suffered from respiratory problems. In response to rumors of his resignation, the Pope said on Italian television in January: "I'm still alive. I am not thinking about resigning." However, this is a "possibility that is open to all popes".