President Volodymyr Zelensky held his first telephone conversation with the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. As noted by the head of state, the dialogue was warm and substantive.
Zelenskyy thanked the Pope for his support for Ukraine and its citizens, particularly noting the importance of the pontiff’s calls for a just and lasting peace, as well as the release of Ukrainian prisoners.
Special attention was paid to the issue of Ukrainian children deported by Russia. The President expressed hope for the Vatican’s assistance in returning these children home.
‘I informed him of the agreement between Ukraine and our partners that a complete and unconditional ceasefire must begin today for at least 30 days, and I also confirmed our readiness for further negotiations in any format, including direct negotiations, which we have repeatedly emphasised. Ukraine wants to end this war and is doing everything to achieve this. We expect Russia to take appropriate steps,’ Zelensky said.
The president also invited Pope Francis to make an apostolic visit to Ukraine: ’Such a visit would bring real hope to all believers, to all our people.’