Zelensky asked the Pope for assistance in the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asked the Vatican to assist in the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war held in Russia. He conveyed this request to the pontiff through Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin during a telephone conversation. This is reported by Vatican News.

“I had a conversation with the Secretary of State of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin. I wished Pope Francis a speedy recovery and thanked him for the prayers and moral support of our people, as well as for the assistance in returning home Ukrainian children who were deported by Russia. The Holy See has received a list of Ukrainian men and women held in Russian prisons and camps. We count on your support for their release. The exchange of prisoners and a ceasefire are the first quick steps that can bring us all much closer to a just and lasting peace. Ukraine is ready to take them because the Ukrainian people want peace more than anyone else,” – Zelensky said.

It should be noted that the head of the UGCC, Sviatoslav Shevchuk, believes that Ukraine should abandon peace talks with Russia. According to Shevchuk, the peace format that is being imposed on Ukraine behind its back is unacceptable and unfair.