Pope sends special envoy to Russia for talks on Ukraine
Pope Leo XIV (photo: Getty Images)
Pope Leo XIV has sent Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, president of the Italian Bishops' Conference, to Russia. According to TASS, the main goal of the visit is to discuss Ukraine.
The papal envoy said he will arrive in the Russian capital on September 27.
Zuppi also said that meetings with Russian officials will take place over three consecutive days—September 28, 29, and 30.
He noted that the visit to Moscow continues the humanitarian mission launched by the previous pope, Francis.
Cardinal Zuppi said this time he was tasked with helping resolve issues related to:
- Ukrainian children abducted by Russia
- Prisoner swap
- Other civilian issues arising from the war.
At the same time, the cardinal said the Vatican receives and considers humanitarian requests from both Ukraine and Russia.
He said contacts with Moscow are already underway and that the Vatican intends to continue the dialogue.
"We know how much suffering the war causes, and we are trying to help bring it to an end," Zuppi said.
Earlier, the media reported that the Pope issued a statement following Russia's massive attack on Kyiv.
As also reported, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov falsely told the Vatican that human rights, including religious rights, are being violated in Ukraine.
