Pope Leo XIV has said that what has been a "true" alliance between Europe and the United States for many years could be about to undergo a huge change. He pointed out that the peace plan for the settlement of the russian-Ukrainian war contains things that many in the United States will agree with, but "many others see the situation differently."
He said this on December 9 after a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Vatican News reports.
Commenting on what he saw as the US president's peace plan for Ukraine, Pope Leo said that unfortunately what has been a "true" alliance between Europe and the United States for many years could be in for a huge change.
"Unfortunately, not everyone understands this, but I believe there is a great opportunity for the idea of Europe to come together and seek solutions collectively. Remarks that are made about Europe, also in interviews recently, I think, are trying to break apart what I think needs to be a very important alliance today and in the future," the Pope added.
Acknowledging that the US president and his advisors have the right to draw up proposals, he said that in his opinion "it has a number of things in it that (…) perhaps many people in the United States would be in agreement, [while] I think many others would see things in a different way."
"I believe Europe’s role is very important, and the unity of European countries is truly significant, especially in this case. ... Trying to reach a peace agreement without including Europe in the discussions is not realistic. The war is in Europe, and I believe that Europe must be part of the security guarantees sought today and in the future," Pope Leo said.
He emphasized: "Unfortunately, not everyone understands this, but I believe there is a great opportunity for the idea of Europe to come together and seek solutions collectively."
Pope Leo also confirmed that the Holy See is ready to provide space and opportunities for negotiations, adding that "so far the proposal has not been accepted, but we remain ready to seek a solution and a peace that will be both lasting and just."
In addition, when asked about the role of the Holy See in the return of abducted children from Ukraine, the Pope confirmed that he had discussed this issue with the Ukrainian leader
"Most of the work that is being done, unfortunately, is very slow, but, so to speak, behind the scenes," he said and confirmed that the Holy See continues to try to return the children home.
We will remind, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Rome on Tuesday, December 9, on a working visit and meeted with Pope Leo XIV at the official residence of the pontiff near Rome.
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