We must “encourage all parties to find the most appropriate form of negotiation, which respects Ukraine and human lives”: the apostolic nuncio to Ukraine explains to euronews the meaning of Pope Francis’ words on the war between Russia and Ukraine.
On Monday, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Vatican’s nuncio to Ukraine to express disappointment over the pontiff’s recent comments.
In an interview with Swiss television channel RSI, the pope suggested that Ukraine “show the courage to raise the white flag” and begins negotiations with Russia to end a two-year conflict.
Our special correspondent Giorgia Orlandi met the papal ambassador in Kyiv. She asked him for his views on the words of Pope Francis.
Mgr Visvaldas Kulbokasapostolic nuncio to Ukraine: “I believe that one of the essential aspects of the Pope’s remarks has already been clarified. The Pope was not suggesting capitulation. Instead, as Cardinal Parolin, Secretary of State, explained when he used the term “negotiations”, the pope suggested that all parties should be involved in the negotiation process. Concretely, it should be the aggressors, in this case Russia, who cease fire first and create the conditions of a negotiation. Moreover, when we speak of “negotiation”, it may seem naive at first glance, taking into account the unfavorable events of recent years in particular during the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. Pope’s invitation aims to transcend these negative experiences and explore alternative approaches, including new ones, to ultimately find the most appropriate form of negotiation, a form that respects Ukraine and human lives.”
But alongside diplomatic efforts, the aid provided by the Catholic Church in Ukraine plays a crucial role, as the apostolic nuncio explains.
“If we consider the Pope’s action, the Pontiff’s “Bambino Gesù” hospital in Rome constitutes an exemplary case”, explains Mgr Visvaldas Kulbokas. “It has already welcomed more than 2,500 Ukrainian children. The support provided goes beyond additional humanitarian aid; various forms of assistance are offered. The Pope actively contributes through Cardinal Krajewski, and the Churches and Caritas are also doing notable work. We are still trying to determine the amount of aid, because it is very high data.”
