Pope Leo has emphasised the crucial need for European involvement in international efforts to broker an end to the war in Ukraine, specifically highlighting Italy's potential as a peace mediator. The Pontiff made his comments while speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight returning from a trip to Turkey and Lebanon on Tuesday.
Europe's Voice is 'Important' in US-Led Peace Plans
The Pope addressed the stalled peace negotiations, noting that while the United States is promoting a plan, its initial proposal lacked European input. "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," Leo stated. He added that "Europe's presence is important" and that the US proposal had already been modified due to European contributions.
His intervention comes directly after Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Europe of obstructing peace, claiming it was "preventing the US administration from achieving peace on Ukraine." Putin also issued a stark warning, declaring, "Russia does not intend to fight Europe, but if Europe starts, we are ready right now."
Italy Tipped as a Potential Intermediary
Pope Leo pinpointed Italy as a nation with unique qualifications to bridge the gap between the conflicting parties. "Specifically, I think Italy's role could be very important," he told reporters. "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."
The Pontiff further suggested the Holy See could encourage such mediation, stating he 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." He confirmed to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni his willingness for the Vatican to host talks.
A Complex War Beyond the Battlefield
Pope Leo outlined the multifaceted nature of the conflict, which extends far beyond conventional warfare. "And it is now a war with many aspects: with the increase in arms, all the armaments production going on, cyber-attacks, energy," he explained. He also highlighted the impending humanitarian crisis, noting "Now that winter is coming there is a serious problem there."
The Pope reiterated the Vatican's position as a neutral party, separate from military alliances like NATO, but committed to dialogue. "The Holy See does not have a direct involvement... and even though many times we have called for a ceasefire, for dialogue and not war," he said, affirming that ending the conflict is "obviously an important issue for peace in the world." Since his election in May, Pope Leo has consistently offered the Vatican's services as a mediator in global disputes.
