VR First Deputy Chairman discusses peace initiatives on Ukraine with Vatican

Oleksandr Kornienko and Holy See Secretary Paul Richard Gallagher. Photo: Yurash's Facebook

First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Oleksandr Kornienko held talks in the Vatican with the Holy See's Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, on the issues of releasing Ukrainian prisoners and advancing peace initiatives, reports Ukraine's Ambassador to the Vatican Andriy Yurash.

During the meeting, the parties paid special attention to humanitarian issues, primarily the development and expansion of mechanisms for the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war, detained civilians, and deported children. The Ukrainian side emphasized the key role of the mediation mission of the Pope's special envoy, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, and called on the Vatican to continue active assistance in the repatriation of citizens.

In addition, the parliamentary representative discussed with the Vatican bishop the involvement of the Holy See in the implementation of peace initiatives and support for humanitarian efforts on international platforms. The interlocutors confirmed their mutual readiness for further development of dialogue and coordination of steps toward achieving peace and overcoming the humanitarian crisis.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Pope's envoy Cardinal Zuppi will visit Russia to discuss the war in Ukraine.

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