Alliance for Peace: Pope Francis and Zelenskyy's Vatican Dialogue

Pope Francis met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Vatican to discuss peace efforts in Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia. The meeting included exchanges of unique gifts symbolizing peace, with discussion focusing on humanitarian issues, potential diplomatic solutions, and securing European support.

Pope Francis hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Vatican on Friday as part of Zelenskyy's European tour to garner backing for his peace initiative aimed at ending the conflict with Russia.

During their 35-minute private meeting in the Sala della Biblioteca, they exchanged symbolic gifts. Pope Francis presented Zelenskyy with a bronze plaque featuring a flower and the inscription, "Peace is a fragile flower." Zelenskyy gifted the Pope an oil painting depicting the tragedy of Bucha, a stark reminder of the Russian atrocities there.

Following the private meeting, Zelenskyy engaged with the Vatican's secretary of state, Pietro Parolin, and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Pope Francis, who previously faced criticism for suggesting Ukraine negotiate peace, continues to advocate for dialogue and prisoner exchanges. Zelenskyy's diplomatic efforts now focus on securing European support amid intensifying conflict challenges in Ukraine's eastern region.

(With inputs from agencies.)