Pope Francis believes that not all Americans share the approaches outlined in President Donald Trump’s peace plan regarding Ukraine.
As reported by Vatican News, he made this statement on Tuesday after meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky, responding to journalists’ questions about his views on the peace plan.
According to the Pope, “unfortunately,” what has been for many years a “true” alliance between Europe and the U.S. may undergo “significant changes.”
“Statements made about Europe, including in recent interviews, I think, attempt to break what I believe should be a very important alliance today and in the future,” he said.
The Pontiff emphasized that the U.S. president and his advisors have the right to formulate proposals, but in his view, the document contains “a number of points with which… perhaps many people in the United States would agree, while many others would see them differently.”
“The Holy See is ready to provide a platform and opportunities for negotiations,” the Holy Father noted, adding: “So far, the proposal has not been accepted, but we remain ready to seek a solution and a peace that would be lasting and just.”
Regarding the participation of European countries in the peace process, which Trump had questioned, the Pope stressed:
“I consider Europe’s role very important, and the unity of European countries—truly significant, especially in this case.”
He underscored that “attempting to reach a peace agreement without including Europe in the discussion is unrealistic.”
“The war continues in Europe, and, as I believe, Europe must be part of the security guarantees sought today and in the future.”
“Unfortunately,” he added, “not everyone understands this, but I believe the European idea has a wonderful opportunity to unite and collectively seek solutions.”
Commenting on Zelensky’s invitation to visit Ukraine, the Pope said:
“I hope for that, although I don’t know when. In such matters, one must also be realistic. It will probably be possible.”
Speaking about the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, he confirmed that he discussed the issue with President Zelensky.
“A large part of the work, unfortunately, is going very slowly, but it is being done, so to speak, behind the scenes,” the Pontiff noted.
He added that the Vatican continues to work “to try to bring those children back home, to their families.”
