Putin wants to speak about Ukrainian Greek Catholics with Pope Francis

Russian president’s aide Yuri Ushakov told journalists the situation in Ukraine might be a possible subject raised at Putin’s meeting with Pope Francis. "It is planned to discuss a whole range of bilateral ties, and also the topical international issues, in particular, the situation in Ukraine with the focus on the interreligious relations and the activity of Ukraine’s Catholics," Ushakov said. ""Of course, they will talk the situation of Christians in the Middle East and the need to protect their interests." The presidential aide told reporters that the particular issues to be discussed "will depend on the course of the conversation", TASS quotes Ushakov. 

The issues mentioned above are the "most topical topics that may be touched upon," Ushakov said, adding that he could not comment now "in what form they will be discussed."

President Vladimir Putin is ready to clarify Russia’s position on Ukraine at a meeting with the Pope, if he is interested in that, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Tuesday.