Zelensky anticipates endorsement from Pope Leo XIV for Ukraine's causes - New Ukrainian President Zelensky expresses optimism for backing from the recently-elected Pope Leo XIV in support of Ukraine.
Via the Vatican's long-standing commitment to international law and challenging Russia's aggression, Zelensky finds hope for Ukraine under the guidance of the newly crowned Pope Leo XIV. He wishes the new shepherd a wealth of wisdom, inspiration, and fortitude — both spiritual and physical — as he embarks on his esteemed mission.
Ukraine is grappling with a protracted conflict that has left its innocent civilians grappling with suffering. With the inauguration of Leo XIV, the new Pope, Ukrainian church leaders catch a glimmer of hope, as his very first words were "Peace be with you," a phrase Ukrainian Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk notes as a beacon of hope and a divine blessing for the war-weary nation. Shevchuk envisions Leo XIV becoming a voicestrengthener of peace for Ukraine's resilient populace.[1]
Ukraine's President, Volodymyr Zelensky, publicly congratulated Leo XIV and recognized the Vatican's steadfast position on disputing Russia's hostilities, reaffirming the rights of civilians. Zelensky voices his nation's anticipation for continued spiritual and moral backing from the Vatican in their struggle for harmony and justice. He expresses unwavering faith in the Holy See's stance and its significance at this critical juncture for Ukraine.[2][3][4][5]
The Vatican throughout, under both Leo XIV and Pope Francis, has championed a stance upholding international law, demonizing Russia's aggression, advocating for peace, and championing the defense of civilians.[2] Pope Francis maintained open communications with Ukraine's leadership amidst the conflict, exhorting peace, yet expressing no explicit accusations against Russia as the aggressor. However, the Vatican's stance on the conflict is unequivocally evident: it condemns the hostilities and prioritizes humanitarian concerns.[2] With Zelensky's statements, it becomes clear that Ukraine perceives the Vatican's stance as a vigorous stand against the Russian incursion.
In essence:
- Ukrainian church leaders perceive Leo XIV's peace message as a delicate nod to Ukraine's anguished situation.[1]
- Zelensky acknowledges the Vatican's resolute position against Russia's aggression and anticipates continued Vatican backing in Ukraine's quest for peace and justice.[2][3][4][5]
- The Vatican, through both Leo XIV and his predecessor, Francis, advocates for international law, denounces military aggression against Ukraine, and champions peace and the protection of civilians.[2]
As the Vatican's position might be general in nature, it remains, nevertheless, a powerful statement as perceived by Ukraine. In this stressful period for Ukraine, the Holy See's stance is viewed as an unyielding rejection of Russia's military aggression and a show of encouragement for Ukraine.
- Ukrainian Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk perceives Pope Leo XIV's initial "Peace be with you" as a beacon of hope and divine blessing for Ukraine's war-weary nation.
- Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's President, acknowledges the Vatican's steadfast position against Russia's aggression and anticipates continued Vatican support in Ukraine's pursuit of peace and justice.
- Under both Pope Leo XIV and his predecessor, Pope Francis, the Vatican has advocated for international law, condemned Russia's aggression, supported peace, and championed the protection of civilians.
- Ukraine perceives the Vatican's stance as a resolute rejection of Russia's military aggression and a source of encouragement in this trying period.
