Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin described the current state of the Ukraine conflict as “tragic,” expressing disappointment over the breakdown of recent efforts toward peace.
“The situation is tragic, because we had hoped a peace process could begin—even a slow one—but one that would lead to a solution. Instead, it seems we are starting all over again,” Cardinal Parolin said, commenting on the renewed deadlock in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
The cardinal also reiterated the Vatican’s readiness to act as a neutral ground for diplomacy, emphasizing Pope Leo XIV’s openness to host direct talks between the conflicting sides:
“The Pope is willing, if considered helpful, to offer the Vatican for a direct meeting between the two parties,” he affirmed.
When asked whether Pope Leo XIV might meet with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance following his enthronement ceremony on Sunday, Parolin noted that efforts are underway:
“There are indeed attempts being made in that direction. I don’t know if they will succeed, as time is limited and many delegations will be present in Rome.”
Source: ANA-MPA, Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
