Asger Risom
Zelensky invites pontiff to Ukraine in historic first call
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has become the first world leader to speak with the newly elected head of the Catholic Church, in a phone conversation aimed at strengthening diplomatic and humanitarian ties.
During the call, the Ukrainian leader extended a formal invitation for the pontiff to visit Ukraine, stating that such a visit would “bring true hope to all believers and to our people,” as reported by 20minutos.
The call comes just days after the pope offered prayers for a “just, true, and lasting peace for Ukraine” and urged for the release of prisoners during his first public address from St. Peter’s Square.
Focus on Peace and Repatriation of Children
Zelensky expressed his appreciation for the Vatican’s ongoing support and briefed the pope on Ukraine’s efforts to recover thousands of children allegedly deported by Russia.
The pope, in his first Sunday Regina Caeli prayer, had already voiced support for the return of these children to their families.
The conversation also touched on broader diplomatic matters. Zelensky informed the pontiff of Ukraine’s agreement with international partners to seek an “immediate, unconditional ceasefire lasting at least 30 days.”
He reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to continue negotiations in any format, including direct talks, stressing that Ukraine remains committed to ending the war and awaits constructive actions from Russia.
The Vatican has not yet commented on whether the pope will accept the invitation, though the discussion marked a clear gesture of mutual engagement amid the continuing conflict.