Pope Leo has underscored the vital importance of European involvement in international efforts to broker an end to the war in Ukraine, singling out Italy as a potential mediator. The pontiff made his remarks to journalists aboard the papal flight on Tuesday, returning from an official visit to Turkey and Lebanon.
Europe's Indispensable Role in Peace Efforts
The Pope addressed the stalled diplomatic landscape, noting that while the United States is pursuing a peace plan, its initial proposal was altered due to European input. "It is clear that, on the one hand, the president of the United States is thinking he can promote a peace plan that he would like to carry out and that, at least at first, is without Europe," Leo stated. "But Europe's presence is important, and that first proposal was also modified because of what Europe was saying."
His comments came on the same day Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Europe of obstructing peace, claiming it was "preventing the US administration from achieving peace on Ukraine." Putin also issued a stark warning, asserting, "Russia does not intend to fight Europe, but if Europe starts, we are ready right now."
Italy's Historical and Cultural Capacity for Mediation
Pope Leo specifically highlighted the unique position of Italy, suggesting it could act as a crucial intermediary between the conflicting parties. "Specifically, I think Italy's role could be very important," he told reporters. "Culturally and historically, Italy has the capacity to act as an intermediary in the midst of a conflict that exists between different parties: Ukraine, Russia, the United States."
The pontiff indicated the Holy See's willingness to support such a process, stating he could "suggest that the Holy See might encourage this kind of mediation, and that one should seek – and that we should seek together – a solution that could truly offer peace, a just peace, in this case in Ukraine."
The Vatican's Stance and the Complexities of War
Pope Leo, who was elected in May, has previously confirmed to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni his openness to hosting talks in the Vatican. He reiterated that ending the conflict is "obviously an important issue for peace in the world." However, he clarified the Vatican's position, noting, "the Holy See does not have a direct involvement, because we are not members of Nato nor of any of the talks so far."
The Pope outlined the multifaceted nature of the modern conflict, extending beyond the battlefield. "And it is now a war with many aspects: with the increase in arms, all the armaments production going on, cyber-attacks, energy," he said, adding a pointed concern: "Now that winter is coming there is a serious problem there."
The Pope's advocacy for dialogue comes amidst a tense international standoff, positioning the Vatican as a persistent, neutral voice calling for ceasefire and negotiation over continued hostilities.
