By Alperen Aktas
ISTANBUL (AA) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held his first conversation with Pope Leo XIV on Monday, thanking the pontiff for his support and requesting Vatican assistance in securing the return of Ukrainian children deported by Russia.
Zelenskyy described the conversation as “warm and truly substantive,” expressing appreciation for the Pope’s efforts toward achieving a just and lasting peace and for advocating the release of prisoners.
“We also discussed the thousands of Ukrainian children deported by Russia. Ukraine counts on the Vatican’s assistance in bringing them home to their families,” he said in a statement on X.
Zelenskyy informed the Pope about a newly reached agreement with Ukraine’s partners to implement a full and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days starting today, and reiterated Kyiv’s readiness for “further negotiations in any format, including direct talks.”
“Ukraine wants to end this war and is doing everything to achieve that. We now await similar steps from Russia,” he added.
Zelenskyy also extended an invitation for an apostolic visit to Ukraine, saying such a gesture would bring “real hope” to believers and all Ukrainians.
He noted that both sides agreed to maintain contact and are planning to meet in person soon.