Pope to Ukrainian President: May hostilities cease and a just and lasting peace be achieved

Vatican News

Pope Leo XIV spoke on Friday morning, April 3, by telephone with Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine.

According to a statement by the Holy See Press Office, “During the cordial conversation, the Holy Father extended his best wishes for the Easter holidays and reaffirmed his closeness to the Ukrainian people.”

The statement added that “They then discussed the humanitarian situation, emphasising the urgency of ensuring that the necessary aid reaches the people suffering from the conflict.”

 Reference was also made to efforts aimed at promoting humanitarian initiatives, especially regarding the release of prisoners.

Finally, the statement concluded, “hope was once again expressed that, with the commitment and cooperation of the international community, hostilities may cease as soon as possible and a just and lasting peace may be achieved.”