Pope Leo has called for greater European involvement in efforts to end Russia's war in Ukraine, suggesting that Italy could serve as a mediator. Speaking to reporters on his return from a trip to Turkey and Lebanon, the pontiff emphasised the importance of Europe's role in peace negotiations.
“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,” Pope Leo said. “But Europe’s presence is important, and that first proposal was also modified because of what Europe was saying.”
The Pope specifically highlighted Italy’s potential as an intermediary. “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,” he stated. He added that he could “suggest that the Holy See might encourage this kind of mediation.”
The remarks come after Russia and the US failed to make progress towards a peace deal during talks on Tuesday. Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Europe of “preventing the US administration from achieving peace on Ukraine” and threatened that Russia was ready for war with Europe if necessary.
Since his election in May, Pope Leo has expressed willingness for the Vatican to host peace talks. He reiterated that ending the war is an important issue for global peace, but noted that the Holy See is not directly involved as it is not a member of Nato or the current negotiations.
