Ukraine is the only country that has openly asked the pope to mediate. Russia restrained itself from “considering what was available” to Francis. The European Union, the United States and China have said nothing. But the leader of the Catholics has not yet stood. “There are a lot of efforts going on around the world,” explains Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state. “The important thing is that the offer of the Holy See is not accepted, but what is happening can be brought to an end in any way.”
The day after the invasion, Francis visited Alexander Avdev, Russia’s ambassador to the Holy See. He spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zhelensky every day, condemning the war: “violent aggression”, “stupid massacre”, “destruction and atrocities”, “disgusting war”, “nothing justified this”, “this is inhumane”, “dangerous atrocities”. “Those who killed our brothers”, “No more wars!” The Catholic blog El Sismógrafo, following in the footsteps of the Vatican, asks if Vladimir Putin realized he was the recipient.
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Jean Rhys is a contributor to OE Mag, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developments that matter to them. Her work highlights relevant stories, emerging trends, and key issues, presenting them in a balanced, accessible, and reader-friendly way.