Zelenskyy Made a Symbolic Gesture at the Vatican: A Gift That Connects Ukraine’s History, Faith, and Struggle
In an unexpected but highly meaningful act, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday during an official meeting with Pope Leo XIV presented His Holiness with a special icon created from an original material—a fragment of a box used for transporting heavy weaponry, brought from near Izyum. This symbolic message unites faith and resistance and stands as a vivid expression of Ukraine's desire for peace and the support of international partners during the most challenging times of the war. The creation received by the Pontiff is an icon depicting the Mother of God with the infant—one of the most revered images in Christian tradition. The artwork was crafted from a fragment of a box that had been used to transport heavy artillery shells employed by Russian forces in the destroyed city of Izyum. Externally, this material serves as a reminder of the cost of war, the destroyed lives, and the innocent children affected by Russian aggression. Addressing those present, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated: "Today, we presented Pope Leo XIV with a special icon—the 'Mother of God with the Infant'—created from a fragment of a box used for heavy artillery shells brought from near Izyum. This image is about our children. About those who suffered during the war, whom Russia intentionally kidnapped and deported, and who are dearly awaited at home, in Ukraine. We pray for the lives of each of the deported children. We hope that the Vatican will support us in returning our people, so that everyone—children and Ukrainian prisoners—can soon come back home." This is not only an act of presenting a church icon but also a call for international solidarity and assistance in returning all affected Ukrainians to their homes. Prior to this, at the end of the liturgy conducted by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, there was a meeting between Ukrainian leaders and the head of the Catholic Church. President Zelenskyy and his wife, First Lady Olena Zelenska, had the opportunity to speak personally with the Pope, express their wishes for Ukraine's support, and thank him for diplomatic and moral backing during the difficult year-long war. This gesture is not merely a formal event but a profound symbol. Faithful Ukrainians and ordinary citizens saw in it a confirmation that even in the darkest times, the light of faith, human solidarity, and resilience do not fade. In a brave step where new symbols of strength and hope emerge from the rubble of war, this icon has become not only an object of veneration but also a powerful reminder: the Ukrainian people are fighting for their future, for the return of their children, and for peace in their home—with God's help and the support of the global community.