Parolin: Vatican to mediate prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia

Cardinal Pietro Parolin at the Peace Summit. Photo: Screenshot from the Office of the President's video

During the Swiss Peace Summit, Secretary of State of the Holy See Cardinal Pietro Parolin stated that the Vatican is ready to act as a mediator in the exchange of POWs between Ukraine and Russia. For this purpose, the Vatican maintains constant communication with both the Ukrainian and Russian governments.

He reminded that the Vatican, as an observer, participates in the work of the International Coalition for the Repatriation of Ukrainian Children from Russia.

Cardinal Parolin expressed the Vatican's concern over the tragic humanitarian consequences of the aggression and its efforts to facilitate the repatriation of children and the release of prisoners, especially severely wounded soldiers and civilians.

"The reunification of minors with their families or legal guardians must be a priority for all parties, and any exploitation of their situation is unacceptable. Therefore, it is crucial that all available channels are used to facilitate this process," Parolin said.

The Secretary of State of the Holy See noted that the condition of prisoners of war falls far short of the standards set by the Geneva Conventions regarding their treatment, and there are difficulties in establishing a commission with the International Committee of the Red Cross to assess the condition of POWs who need urgent medical assistance.

As reported by the UOJ, the final declaration of the Global Peace Summit, held on June 15-16 in Switzerland, was signed by 80 countries and 4 organizations. There was no representative of the Pope among the signatories.

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