Ukraine and Germany have strongly criticized Pope Francis’ proposal for Ukraine to raise a “white flag” in the ongoing Ukrainian-Russian conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the pontiff’s suggestion for talks with Russia, referring to it as a distant “virtual mediation.”
Zelensky refrained from directly addressing the Pope or his recent remarks. Instead, he emphasized that the ideas put forth by the Pontiff were unrelated to the ongoing efforts of religious figures within Ukraine to support the nation. “They support us with prayers, discussions and actions. This is really a Church that supports the people,” Zelensky said. “The Church cannot be situated 2,500 kilometers away, detached from the reality on the ground, attempting virtual mediation between those striving for survival and those seeking to destroy you,” remarked Zelensky.
In a recent interview with the state-run RTS television network, aired two days before, Pope Francis, addressing the situation in Ukraine, urged against hesitating to engage in negotiations before the situation escalates further. “I believe that true strength lies in those who assess the situation, prioritize the well-being of the people, and demonstrate the courage to seek peace through dialogue,” he asserted.
Additionally, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba issued a firm response to the Pope’s suggestion, affirming that Ukraine would “never” capitulate to Russia. “Our flag is yellow and blue. For this flag we live, we die and we seek triumph. We will never raise any other flags,” Kuleba said. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock also expressed her disagreement with the Pope’s stance on Ukraine, emphasizing that she “does not understand” his position.
“I firmly believe that certain realities cannot be fully understood until one witnesses them firsthand,” added the minister, who has visited Kyiv on numerous occasions since the conflict began. Reflecting on her conversations with Ukrainian children impacted by the war, she pondered, “Where is the Pope in all of this?” “The Pope must be aware of these things,” she added.
Burbok said that if Ukraine and its allies “do not demonstrate courage now, there will be no peace.” “We must be on Ukraine’s side and do everything we can to ensure that it can defend itself,” she underscored.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
