Cardinal Parolin Expresses Hope for Peace Between Russia and Ukraine During Istanbul Talks

VATICAN CITY, May 15, 2025 — Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, voiced hopes that the direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which began Thursday in Istanbul, could serve as a significant starting point for peace in the ongoing war. Speaking at the Pontifical Gregorian University during an event on Ukraine, the cardinal expressed cautious optimism, stating, "We always hope there are openings for peace," and underscored that the Vatican supports any serious initiative to halt the war. The talks, facilitated by the United States, bring together Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin for the first time to broker a ceasefire and end the conflict.

The cardinal emphasized that while it was too early to predict the outcome, the Vatican views the summit as a potential breakthrough in the peace process. "We hope that this is a serious starting point to end the war," he stated, acknowledging the importance of direct dialogue between the two warring nations. Parolin also addressed questions regarding a possible papal visit to Ukraine, calling it "premature" to discuss at this stage but reaffirmed that Pope Leo XIV would continue to advocate for peace and provide assistance where possible.

In his remarks, Parolin highlighted ongoing Vatican efforts, including the repatriation of Ukrainian children taken to Russia, a process supported by Cardinal Matteo Zuppi’s mission. The repatriation mechanism remains active, focusing on reconnecting families separated by the conflict. Cardinal Parolin also reiterated the Holy See’s stance on the Middle East, stressing Pope Francis’ call for an end to the Gaza conflict and for intervention to address the dwindling Christian presence in the region.

Finally, the Cardinal spoke about Pope Leo XIV's first potential journey, suggesting that a visit to Nicaea, commemorating 1,700 years since the Council of Nicaea, could be a significant part of the new Pope's travels, continuing efforts for ecumenical dialogue.

By Salvatore Cernuzio

Courtesy: Vatican News