Vatican expresses hope for just, lasting peace in Ukraine

By Baris Seckin

VATICAN (AA) – The Vatican has expressed its hope for a just and lasting peace in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, emphasizing that such a peace should be achieved without any preconditions.

In a statement, the Vatican press office said that Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke over the phone on March 14.

It said that during the conversation, Zelenskyy wished a quick recovery for Pope Francis, who has been undergoing treatment in the hospital for over a month.

Zelenskyy also gave information on the ceasefire initiative from the US.

"In this context, while continuing to pray for peace in Ukraine, the Vatican hopes that the parties will take advantage of sincere dialogue opportunities aimed at achieving a just and lasting peace, without any preconditions. At the same time, the Vatican encourages all efforts to secure the release of prisoners," the Vatican statement said.