Ukrainian President Vlodomyr Zelensky tweeted on March 22 that he has again spoken with Pope Francis.
According to the president, he told the Pope that mediation from the Holy See would be appreciated, given the “blocking of rescue corridors by Russian troops.”
Just two days after the war began, the Pope phoned Zelensky.
The Holy See has been offering a mediating role since the beginning of the conflict, with the Pope’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, repeatedly expressing readiness to help. However, the relations of the Vatican with Russia, and specifically the Russian Orthodox Church, are difficult and complex.
Just after posting the tweet, Zelensky addressed the Italian senate. He said that the Pope assured that he understands that Ukrainians want peace. “I understand that you want to defend yourselves, I understand that the military defend civilians, and that civilians defend their own homeland,” Zelensky quoted the Pope as saying.
Ukraine’s ambassador to the Holy See also tweeted about the call. He said that Zelensky repeated his invitation to the Pope to come to Ukraine. Last week, the mayor of Kyiv made the same request.
While it is not likely that the Pope could be helpful with a visit to Ukraine, he has sent two prelates to represent him there.
This Friday, March 25, the Pope will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
And today we celebrate...