Vatican City – Pope Leone XIV has publicly raised concerns about a potential path to peace in Ukraine,following a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Villa Barberini on Tuesday. The Pope’s remarks center on proposals reportedly advanced by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a resolution to the conflict,a plan that would seemingly sideline key European allies [[1]]. The Vatican confirmed the Pope also addressed the ongoing humanitarian crisis, specifically the plight of Ukrainian children and prisoners of war, signaling continued willingness to facilitate negotiations despite current stalled efforts.
Pope Expresses Doubt Over Trump Plan to Address Ukraine Conflict Without European Involvement
CASTEL GANDOLFO – Pope Leone XIV has questioned the feasibility of a peace plan for Ukraine that excludes European nations, responding to proposals recently put forward by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The Pope’s comments came after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on November 21st.
“I think the role of Europe is very important, and the unity of European countries is truly significant, especially in this case,” Pope Leone XIV stated as he left Villa Barberini on Tuesday evening. “Trying to reach a peace agreement without including Europe in the talks is not realistic. The war is in Europe, and I believe that Europe must be part of the security guarantees sought today and in the future. Unfortunately, not everyone understands this, but there is a great opportunity for European leaders to unite and seek solutions together.”
Regarding Trump’s plan, which has drawn scrutiny for its potential impact on transatlantic alliances, the Pope said he hadn’t fully reviewed the details but expressed concern. “Unfortunately, I believe that some parts of what I have seen bring about an enormous change to what has been a true alliance between Europe and the United States for many, many years. The observations made about Europe, even in recent interviews, I believe are trying to dismantle what I consider should be a very important alliance today and in the future.”
The Pope met with President Zelenskyy for the third time this year, following previous audiences on May 18th and July 9th. The primary focus of Tuesday’s discussion was the ongoing conflict and potential avenues for a ceasefire. They specifically addressed the issue of children allegedly abducted from Ukraine, as well as the fate of prisoners of war, and how the Church might assist in their return.
Pope Prevost confirmed the Holy See remains willing to provide a venue for negotiations, stating, “We are available to offer space and opportunities for negotiations and talks,” but added that this offer has not yet been accepted. “However, we are available to seek a solution to achieve a lasting and just peace.”
Responding to an invitation from Zelenskyy to visit Ukraine, Pope Leone XIV said, “I hope so, but I don’t know when.” He added a note of realism, saying, “One must also be realistic about these things; perhaps it will be possible.”
The Pope also addressed recent reports questioning whether he prayed during a visit to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, stating, “But who said I didn’t pray? They said I didn’t pray, but I already gave an answer on the plane. I mentioned a book – ‘The Practice of the Presence of God’ by Brother Lawrence’ – perhaps I am praying even now…” He clarified that while he “prefers to pray in a Catholic Church in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament,” he found the reporting on his visit to the mosque “curious.”
