Zelenskiy's Vatican Appeal: A Plea for Captive Ukrainians

During a meeting with Pope Francis, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy sought assistance in releasing Ukrainians held captive by Russia. The discussion focused on Ukraine's war efforts, upcoming peace talks, and the Vatican's potential involvement in a conference on prisoners in Canada.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with Pope Francis at the Vatican, urging for support in releasing Ukrainian captives held by Russia.

During his European tour to promote a 'victory plan' for the conflict with Russia, Zelenskiy invited the Vatican to participate in a conference about prisoners-of-war, scheduled in Canada. He emphasized the significance of the Vatican's help during his 35-minute discussion with the Pope. Although officials provided few details on the meeting, it was noted that Zelenskiy's talks with the Vatican's chief diplomat addressed the current war situation and potential pathways to peace.

This marked Zelenskiy's second meeting with Pope Francis in four months. Their previous encounter occurred during a G7 summit in Italy in June. The Pope gifted Zelenskiy a bronze artwork symbolizing peace, while Zelenskiy presented the Pope with an oil painting depicting a child among ruins in Bucha, a town previously under Russian occupation, where alleged war crimes occurred.

(With inputs from agencies.)