Ukraine firmly rejected Pope Francis’ call for Kyiv to negotiate an end to its conflict with Russia, urging the country to “have the courage to raise the white flag”.
The country’s Foreign Minister emphasized Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to its blue and yellow colors, dismissing the notion of surrender.
President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the Pope’s comments as “virtual mediation,” stating that Ukraine will not negotiate under such circumstances.
A Vatican spokesperson clarified that the Pope advocated for stopping the fighting through negotiation, not capitulation.
The Pope’s interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI, scheduled for March 20, is part of a cultural program.
In the interview, the Pope discussed the debate surrounding Ukraine’s approach to Russia, urging courage and negotiation in conflict resolution.
President Zelensky praised Ukrainian chaplains for their frontline support, emphasizing the church’s role in solidarity with the people.
Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba reiterated Ukraine’s allegiance to its flag, denouncing the idea of raising any other flags.
Ukraine’s ambassador to the Vatican compared the Pope’s remarks to advocating talks with Adolf Hitler during World War Two.
Critics, including Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski, questioned whether the Pope would encourage Putin to withdraw his forces from Ukraine.
The Vatican clarified that the Pope emphasized negotiation as a means to achieve a truce, not surrender.
As Ukraine faces continued aggression, the international community grapples with providing support, including a stalled $60bn bill in the US Congress. European countries struggle to reach consensus on aiding Kyiv.
