Zelensky Responds to Pope Francis’s Call for Dialogue and Peace in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has publicly reacted to the appeal made by Pope Francis, who at the end of August issued a call for an immediate ceasefire and the start of meaningful dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.
In his official statement, Zelensky expressed sincere gratitude for the pope’s support and emphasized the necessity of taking serious steps towards ending the ongoing conflict, which has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread destruction.
Pope Francis, in his message, underlined the importance of uniting efforts through prayer, acts of mercy, and diplomatic negotiations, urging countries and leaders to abandon violence and seek peace through dialogue.
He specifically addressed the mothers of fallen Ukrainians, offering condolences and hope that the global community will show compassion.
Responding, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to this stance and called on Russia to take concrete actions to cease hostilities, highlighting the critical role of international pressure and diplomacy.
He stressed that the war must be stopped, and peace restored through dialogue and collective effort.
It is also noteworthy that Pope Francis has repeatedly called upon the youth in Ukraine and Gaza in his sermons, emphasizing the possibility of envisioning a different, more peaceful world.
In his earliest sermons, he urged an end to ongoing conflicts, advocating for long-lasting and just peace worldwide.