The Vatican is prepared to host a meeting between the leaders of Ukraine and Russia
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, announced this on his official Telegram channel following a meeting with a delegation from the Holy See.
The President met with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations.
According to Zelenskyy, the Holy See delegation was in Kyiv during the massive Russian attack. The President emphasised that Russia has not ceased its shelling, so diplomatic efforts to achieve peace must continue.
Zelenskyy cited a summit-level meeting as one possible format.
“I thank the Vatican for its willingness to host such a meeting and to continue its efforts to ensure that it can take place,” the President said.
In this statement, Zelenskyy did not name the second participant in the potential talks. However, he was referring to the format previously proposed by Kyiv of a direct meeting between the President of Ukraine and the Russian leader, Vladimir Putin.
Has the meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin been agreed?
The Vatican’s willingness to host the talks does not yet mean that the meeting has been confirmed. As of the time of publication, no date, agenda or composition of the delegations has been announced. There is also no confirmation of the Russian side’s participation.
The Vatican News report on the conclusion of Gallagher’s visit did not provide any details of possible talks. It noted that the Holy See had reaffirmed its support for the Ukrainian people and its commitment to a just and lasting peace.
What else did Zelenskyy and Gallagher discuss?
During the meeting, the parties discussed the activities of the Church in Ukraine. Zelenskyy highlighted the role of the clergy in supporting Ukrainian military personnel and civilians during the war.
Ukraine’s accession to the European Union was a separate topic of discussion. According to the President, the Vatican supports Ukraine’s European choice and recognises the state’s efforts aimed at achieving full membership of the EU.
Zelenskyy also thanked Pope Leo XIV and the Holy See for their prayers and continued support for Ukraine.
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