Zelensky Engages in Peace Negotiations with Pope Leo XIV Amid Ongoing Conflict

In a meaningful encounter between faith and political will, President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Pope Leo XIV to explore avenues for peace amid the lengthy war with Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, along with his wife Olena Zelenska, participated in Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass held in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday. Following the ceremony, he held a private meeting with the newly elected pontiff, who had recently voiced his commitment to mediating discussions aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Pope Leo XIV had mentioned on Friday his desire to facilitate talks at the Vatican, emphasizing the Holy See's readiness to act as a neutral ground for peace negotiations. “The Holy See is always ready to help bring enemies together, face to face, to talk to one another,” he proclaimed. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the pope's secretary of state, reinforced this sentiment, highlighting the Vatican as an “appropriate place” for such discussions.

During the Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV delivered a poignant address regarding the consequences of war. He notably remarked, “Martyred Ukraine awaits negotiations for a just and lasting peace,” indicating a direct parallel with sentiments previously expressed by his predecessor, Pope Francis.

After the meeting with the pope, Zelensky took to social media to express his appreciation, stating, "Every nation deserves to live in peace and security” and thanking the Vatican for its potential role as a platform for direct negotiations between his nation and Russia. The ongoing commitment to pursuing dialogue marked a significant diplomatic effort in these challenging times.