Leo XIV Calls for Russia-Ukraine Talks at the Vatican: “True Makers of History Are the Makers of Peace”

Pope Leo XIV has expressed his willingness to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine at the Vatican, as the Holy See announced its readiness to bring both parties together in an effort to end the war, now entering its fourth year.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State and top diplomat, commented on the situation during an event in Rome on Friday. He described the ongoing conflict as tragic and reiterated the Holy See’s hope for gradual progress toward a peaceful resolution. However, he noted that recent developments have reset efforts back to the starting point.

Parolin emphasized that discussions are underway to explore possible initiatives despite the complexity of the conflict, stating that Pope Leo XIV aims to position the Vatican as a venue for direct dialogue between the parties.

Pope Leo XIV, who was elected last week, has underscored that achieving peace in Ukraine is among the key priorities of his papacy.

In a meeting with representatives of Eastern Churches on Wednesday, the pontiff made a direct appeal to leaders on both sides to engage in negotiations. He affirmed the Vatican’s consistent stance of remaining open to facilitating dialogue, adding: “Let us gather, speak, and negotiate—true makers of history are the makers of peace.”