Moscow ready to receive Vatican negotiator

Russian ambassador to the Vatican and Pope Francis. Photo: Vatican News

Russian Ambassador to the Vatican Ivan Soltanovsky told TASS that Pope Francis is ready to mediate in the war in Ukraine, but the West is preventing the resolution of the conflict.

He said that after the start of the SMO, Russian authorities received from the Vatican "a proposal to mediate in establishing a dialogue with the Ukrainian side". According to Soltanovsky, "the Holy See has taken a neutral and balanced position since the beginning of the war."

"We know that Pope Francis does not accept military action. We appreciate his efforts to establish a lasting and just peace," the Russian ambassador said.

He also told Moskovsky Komsomolets that Russian authorities are ready to receive Vatican negotiator Cardinal Matteo Zuppi in Moscow.

"If the case requires another visit of the Pope’s special envoy to Russia, such a possibility will be carefully considered. The doors in Moscow are open and the Vatican is aware of this," the diplomat said.

As earlier reported, Zelensky awarded two Vatican cardinals, including Matteo Zuppi.

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