Controversy Erupts as Pope Calls for Ukraine to Consider Peace Talks with Russia

Pope Francis upset some people when he suggested that Ukraine should consider negotiating with Russia to put an end to the war. During an interview with Swiss broadcaster Radio Télévision Suisse (RTS) published on Saturday, Francis was questioned about whether negotiations would make the stronger party seem more legitimate.

"That is one way to look at it," he said. "However, I think true strength lies in being able to assess the situation, consider the well-being of others, and have the bravery to engage in negotiations." The Pope also mentioned, "In today's world, international support can make negotiations achievable."

Kyiv quickly reacted to the remarks, as the city has suffered significant losses and is determined to regain control of all its land taken by Russia.

"Our flag is yellow and blue, representing our values and beliefs. It is a symbol of our unity and strength. We are proud to stand by this flag in all circumstances," stated Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on social media.

Kuleba emphasized the importance of taking a stand for what is right, saying, "The true strength lies in choosing good over evil. We must not compromise our values by trying to negotiate with evil forces."

People wave Ukrainian flags at St.Peter's square as Pope Francis addresses the crowd on Sunday.

People wave Ukrainian flags at St.Peter's square as Pope Francis addresses the crowd on Sunday.

In New York on Saturday, His Beatitude Sviatoslav, the Father and Head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, addressed Ukrainians. He stated that despite being wounded, Ukraine remains unconquered. He emphasized that there is no intention to make concessions.

Father Sviatoslav, from the Greek Catholic Church, shared a message from the people of Ukraine. He emphasized that Ukraine may be tired, but it remains resilient and will continue to stand strong. He reassured that there is no thought of giving up, even in the areas currently affected by conflict.

Later, Matteo Bruni from the Holy See Press Office clarified the Pope's comments to journalists. He explained that the Pope used the image of the white flag to symbolize a ceasefire achieved through brave negotiations, and not as a sign of surrender. This clarification was made to address any misunderstanding that may have arisen from the Pope's words.

Other European leaders also criticized Francis’s remarks.

Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested on X that Putin should consider withdrawing his army from Ukraine for the sake of peace.

"My Sunday morning thoughts: We should never surrender to evil, but instead stand up and fight against it until it surrenders," shared Latvia's President Edgars Rinkēvičs on X.

Sharing her views on X, Alexandra Valkenburg, the head of the EU delegation to the Holy See, stated on Sunday that "Russia initiated an illegal and unjust war against Ukraine two years ago" and can bring an end to it by respecting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Editor's P/S:

Pope Francis's suggestion that Ukraine consider negotiations with Russia has sparked mixed reactions. While the Pope advocates for peaceful resolution, Ukraine remains steadfast in its determination to regain control of its territory. The Pope's comments have been met with criticism from Ukrainian officials, who emphasize the importance of standing up to evil.

The Pope's use of the white flag as a symbol of ceasefire through brave negotiations has been clarified by the Holy See Press Office. Other European leaders have also weighed in, with some supporting the Pope's call for negotiations while others maintain that Ukraine should not compromise its sovereignty. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a complex and challenging situation, with no easy solutions in sight. it is unclear whether negotiations will ultimately lead to a peaceful resolution.