On Tuesday evening, journalists assembled outside the Papal residence in Castel Gandolfo, where Pope Leo XIV takes a brief weekly respite, ready with a list of prepared questions.
This was reported by Vatican News.
The Pope was approached to elaborate on the official statement provided by the Press Office regarding his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. He indicated that their discussions extended beyond the topics of war and ceasefire to include the Church's role in facilitating the safe return of Ukrainian children. Additionally, the Holy See expressed its readiness to offer a platform for peace negotiations, a proposal that has yet to receive a response.
President Zelensky extended an invitation for the Pope to visit Ukraine, to which the Pope replied with optimism, although he cautioned, “One must also be realistic in these matters.” When questioned about Europe’s involvement in the pursuit of peace, the Pope stated that "trying to reach a peace agreement without including Europe in the discussions is not realistic."
He added, “The war is in Europe, and I believe that Europe must be part of the security guarantees sought today and in the future.”