Pope Leo views Italy as potential mediator in Ukraine-Russia peace talks

This was reported by Vatican News.

In particular, the pontiff emphasized Europe's role in finding ways to end the war in Ukraine. He added that the Holy See could encourage such mediation to seek a solution that would ensure a just peace in Ukraine.

"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. But Europe’s presence is important, and that first proposal was also modified because of what Europe was saying," the Pope emphasized, noting that there are reasons to consider Italy as an effective mediator.

"Specifically, I think Italy’s role could be very important. 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… In this sense, I could suggest that the Holy See might encourage this kind of mediation, and that one should seek — and that we should seek together — a solution that could truly offer peace, a just peace, in this case in Ukraine," said Leo XIV.