The pope was not hurt in the incident and did not appear to notice that bodyguards behind him were wrestling with the assailant.

Television footage showed the man as he vaulted the cement barrier and landed in the outstretched arms of guards on the rear platform of the vehicle.

The pope Benedict XVI was traveling across St. Peter's Square to address pilgrims at his weekly general audience.

The man, whose nationality was not immediately known, was reported in custody and being questioned by police.

Addressing thousands a short while later, Pope Benedict 16th appealed to leaders of industrialized nations, meeting in Germany, to honor past pledges to boost aid to the world's poorest countries, including many in Africa.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, and AP. - Source: VOA News