In a significant diplomatic move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held private talks with Pope Francis at the Vatican, seeking support for Ukraine’s peace plan and discussing the ongoing humanitarian and political situation in the war-torn country. The meeting took place as Russia’s aggression continued to escalate, with reports of missile strikes and crashes near the Ukrainian border.
President Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude to Pope Francis for his personal attention to the tragedy faced by millions of Ukrainians. They discussed the plight of tens of thousands of deported Ukrainian children, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the importance of making efforts to bring them back home. Although Ukraine’s prime minister had previously asked the pope to help in this matter, the Vatican’s statement did not mention the specific request.
The Vatican highlighted that the meeting focused on Ukraine’s humanitarian and political situation resulting from the ongoing war. Pope Francis assured President Zelenskyy of his constant prayers and reiterated his commitment to peace, evident in his numerous public appeals since the Russian invasion began in February 2022.
President Zelenskyy urged the pope to condemn Russian crimes in Ukraine, emphasizing that there can be no equality between the victim and the aggressor. He also presented his ten-point peace plan, which includes the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute Russian war crimes, the creation of a European-Atlantic security architecture for Ukraine, and the restoration of damaged infrastructure, including safety measures for the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
Earlier in the day, President Zelenskyy received pledges of military and financial support from Italian officials, as well as stronger backing for Ukraine’s aspiration to join the European Union. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni affirmed Italy’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine, stating that the future of Ukraine is intrinsically tied to peace and freedom, which aligns with Europe’s vision.
The meeting with Pope Francis comes amidst intensifying hostilities, as Russian forces reportedly launched missile strikes and experienced aircraft crashes near the Ukrainian border. Ukrainian units continued their offensive near Bakhmut, recapturing territory in the war’s longest and bloodiest battle. Zelenskyy’s visit to Germany, which follows his meeting with the pope, aims to further garner support for Ukraine.
While there has been speculation about the Vatican playing a mediating role, Zelenskyy indicated that mediation with Russian President Vladimir Putin would be impossible. However, the Vatican’s involvement in a behind-the-scenes peace mission remains undisclosed and unconfirmed by Russia or Ukraine.
Germany also announced additional military aid for Ukraine, worth over 2.7 billion euros ($3 billion), as a demonstration of its steadfast support. Germany’s defense minister stressed their commitment to assisting Ukraine for as long as necessary.
In summary, President Zelenskyy’s meeting with Pope Francis sought support for Ukraine’s peace plan and condemned Russian aggression. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of continued hostilities, missile strikes, and military aid pledges from Italy and Germany, all reinforcing Ukraine’s determination to secure peace and preserve its sovereignty.