Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
The Pope's envoy Cardinal Zuppi. Photo: Ukrinform
Pope Leo XIV’s special envoy, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, discussed humanitarian issues and prisoner exchanges during a three-day visit to Moscow and personally met with Ukrainian servicemen held in Russian captivity, Reuters reports.
During talks with Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov and representatives of the Russian Foreign Ministry, the Vatican envoy discussed prospects for resolving the conflict, as well as humanitarian issues, including the return of displaced children and arrangements for prisoner-of-war exchanges.
The sides also discussed the situation in the city of Oleshky, Kherson region. The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed that the Ukrainian side was blocking attempts to deliver humanitarian aid to residents of the city, while Ukrainian authorities say Russia is preventing civilians from leaving.
During the trip, Cardinal Zuppi was given the opportunity to visit Ukrainian servicemen held in Russia. The Russian Foreign Ministry said the Vatican cardinal spoke personally with the prisoners and observed their detention conditions. The ministry said the three days of consultations confirmed the constructive nature of dialogue between the Holy See and Russia, as well as both sides’ readiness to continue cooperation.
Earlier, the UOJ wrote that Pope Leo XIV called for concessions for the sake of peace in Ukraine.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.