Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may not have time to personally attend the farewell ceremony for Pope Francis; however, the official representation of our state at this significant religious and secular event will be ensured

Despite the fact that the head of state has not yet determined precise dates for returning to Ukraine due to the complex military situation, his absence in Kyiv will not go unnoticed — the country will be properly represented by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and First Lady Olena Zelenska. According to sources directly from the president, Zelensky emphasized the importance of personal participation in the ceremony. At the same time, he noted that if he fails to personally greet Pope Francis, high-ranking representatives of the Ukrainian state will fulfill his duties. “If I am unable to be personally present at the farewell, Ukraine will still be represented at the highest level. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and First Lady Olena Zelenska will demonstrate our country's respect for His Holiness and all believers in Ukraine,” the head of state underscored. Zelensky assured that it is personally important for him to be at the ceremony; however, due to the consequences of missile attacks Ukraine endured on the night of April 24, and other urgent military matters, he must balance diplomatic priorities with the need to oversee the country's defense. “We have several closed military meetings and consultations at the Command Post, as the issues related to responding to the Russian strike and Ukraine’s appropriate steps require quick and thorough processing. I cannot say exactly how long this process will take, but if I manage, I will definitely attend the ceremony. It is extremely important for our country,” he noted. Earlier, it was planned that Zelensky would be personally present at the farewell ceremony for Pope Francis in Vatican City. However, after Ukraine experienced a missile strike, he shortened his diplomatic mission to South Africa and returned to Kyiv to participate in meetings related to military needs. Nevertheless, his absence from the farewell was understood in international circles, as Ukraine is currently undergoing a difficult period of military tests, and the priorities of Ukrainian authorities remain unchanged — defense and protection of national interests. Zelensky also emphasized that any personal presence in Rome is not just a diplomatic formality but a gesture of support and solidarity with all Ukrainians, who are now watching news from the frontline with anxiety and hope. At the same time, the representation of our country at the farewell ceremony, provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the First Lady, will have symbolic significance and will underscore the unity of Ukrainian society during these difficult times.