Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has provided the Vatican a list of Ukrainians detained by the Russian military, seeking diplomatic mediation for their release.
The Holy See has received a list of Ukrainians held in Russian prisons and camps. We are counting on the support [of Vatican] for their release,” Zelenskyy stated on social media.
He also revealed that he had a phone conversation with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Holy See’s secretary of state, during which he wished Pope Francis—hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital—a speedy recovery.
“I thanked him for his prayers and moral support for our people, as well as for his efforts in facilitating the return of Ukrainian children illegally deported and displaced by Russia,” Zelenskyy added, expressing gratitude for the Vatican’s prayers for Ukraine and peace.
“The voice of the Holy See is very important on the path to peace. I am grateful for the willingness to make efforts toward our shared goal,” Zelenskyy stated.
He also mentioned his government’s approval of the United States’ proposal for a temporary ceasefire, a compromise reached after more than eight hours of negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
“The exchange of prisoners and an unconditional 30-day full interim ceasefire are the first quick steps that could significantly bring us closer to a just and lasting peace. Ukraine is ready to take these steps because the Ukrainian people want peace more than anyone,” Zelenskyy wrote on X.
Read next
17:04
aid for Ukraine
The Council of the EU on Monday approved an extra €3.5 billion (approximately $3.8 billion) in financial support for Ukraine, consisting of non-repayable grants and loans, according to a press release from the European Council.
17:03
Ukraine
A large number of countries are prepared to deploy peacekeeping troops to Ukraine if a peace deal with Russia is reached, a spokesperson for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. More than 30 nations are expected to join the "coalition of the willing" to support Ukraine.
07:30
Zelenskyy and Canada’s new PM Mark Carney discussed military aid, sanctions on Russia, and defence cooperation, highlighting stronger ties and Ukraine’s role in Canada’s G7 agenda.
18:59
Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, has expressed optimism that the U.S. president will speak with Russian leader Vladimir Putin this week to discuss ending the ongoing war in Ukraine, following what he described as productive talks in Moscow.
11:27
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met with his Spanish counterpart, Margarita Robles, to discuss European security and strengthening Ukraine’s defence forces.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment