Zelensky hopes for Vatican’s assistance in prisoner exchange

Zelensky and Parolin. Photo: Vatican News

On March 14, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a phone conversation with Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, during which he discussed the Holy See’s assistance in the exchange of prisoners. Zelensky announced this on Telegram.

"The Holy See has received a list of Ukrainian men and women who are being held in Russian prisons and camps. We are counting on support for their release," Zelensky told Parolin.

According to him, "a prisoner exchange and an unconditional 30-day ceasefire are the first quick steps that can significantly bring all of us closer to a just and lasting peace."

"Ukraine is ready to take these steps because the Ukrainian people want peace more than anyone else. Meanwhile, the world sees how Russia deliberately sets conditions that only complicate and prolong the process because Russia is the only actor that wants the war to continue and diplomacy to fail," Zelensky stated. He added that "the voice of the Holy See is very important on the path to peace."

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Office of the President of Ukraine ruled out Vatican mediation with Russia, calling the Pope "pro-Russian".

Read also