Zelensky, Vance, and the Pope discuss peace in Ukraine at the Vatican
On May 18, a ceremonial inauguration of the new Pope Leo XIV was held at the Vatican. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Vice President J.D. Vance attended the event and exchanged a handshake. After the religious service, Zelensky held separate meetings with the Pope, Vance, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Political talks amid a historic backdrop
During the event, Zelensky was seated next to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Vance was also nearby. These interactions turned into a significant platform for international dialogue on the war between Ukraine and Russia.
To recall, the last meeting between Zelensky and Vance occurred on February 28 in the White House, where a dispute broke out involving Donald Trump over aid to Ukraine and the war. As a result, Zelensky left the meeting without signing an agreement.
The Pope speaks about peace
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV expressed concern over the war in Ukraine: “Suffering Ukraine awaits the start of negotiations for a just and lasting peace.”
Following the service, the Pope met with President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska and offered prayers for peace and dignity. Zelensky thanked the Pope:
“May prayers for just peace and a decent life for all people be answered.”
Zelensky – Vance – Rubio meeting: focus on negotiations
According to a statement from the Ukrainian presidential office, during his meeting with Vance and Rubio, Zelensky shared details of the recent Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul, emphasizing Russia’s unrealistic demands and violations of the ceasefire.
“The low level of the Russian delegation showed that it had no decision-making authority,” — the statement read.
It was also stressed that international pressure must be intensified to force Russia into a full and unconditional ceasefire.
The sides also discussed possible next steps, including stronger sanctions against Russia.
Vatican as a neutral negotiation venue?
A few days before the ceremony, the Pope proposed using the Vatican as a neutral location for potential future talks between Ukraine and Russia. In his first address, he had also placed strong emphasis on establishing peace in Ukraine.
Political talks amid a historic backdrop
During the event, Zelensky was seated next to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Vance was also nearby. These interactions turned into a significant platform for international dialogue on the war between Ukraine and Russia.
To recall, the last meeting between Zelensky and Vance occurred on February 28 in the White House, where a dispute broke out involving Donald Trump over aid to Ukraine and the war. As a result, Zelensky left the meeting without signing an agreement.
The Pope speaks about peace
In his inaugural address, Pope Leo XIV expressed concern over the war in Ukraine: “Suffering Ukraine awaits the start of negotiations for a just and lasting peace.”
Following the service, the Pope met with President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska and offered prayers for peace and dignity. Zelensky thanked the Pope:
“May prayers for just peace and a decent life for all people be answered.”
Zelensky – Vance – Rubio meeting: focus on negotiations
According to a statement from the Ukrainian presidential office, during his meeting with Vance and Rubio, Zelensky shared details of the recent Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul, emphasizing Russia’s unrealistic demands and violations of the ceasefire.
“The low level of the Russian delegation showed that it had no decision-making authority,” — the statement read.
It was also stressed that international pressure must be intensified to force Russia into a full and unconditional ceasefire.
The sides also discussed possible next steps, including stronger sanctions against Russia.
Vatican as a neutral negotiation venue?
A few days before the ceremony, the Pope proposed using the Vatican as a neutral location for potential future talks between Ukraine and Russia. In his first address, he had also placed strong emphasis on establishing peace in Ukraine.
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