Zelensky seeks Vatican's aid for peace and return of deported children
President of Ukraine and the newly elected pope held a conversation on Monday. According to Zelensky, the talk was "very warm and truly substantive."
"I thanked His Holiness for supporting Ukraine and our entire nation. We deeply appreciate his words about the need to achieve a just and lasting peace for our country and the release of prisoners," wrote the Ukrainian president on social media.
Zelensky stated that they also addressed the issue of thousands of Ukrainian children deported by Russia, adding that Ukraine is relying on the Vatican's assistance to reunite them with their families."We also discussed the thousands of Ukrainian children deported by Russia. Ukraine counts on the Vatican's help in bringing them back to their families," Zelensky noted.
Zelensky discussed a ceasefire
"I informed the Pope about the agreement between Ukraine and our partners that, starting today, a full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days must begin. I also reaffirmed Ukraine’s readiness for further negotiations in any format, including direct talks — a position we have repeatedly emphasised. Ukraine wants to end this war and is doing everything to achieve that. We now await similar steps from Russia," he stressed.
Zelensky invited the Pope to Ukraine. "Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers and to all our people," he explained.
