Vatican Offers to Host Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks

Pope Leo extended an olive branch to Ukraine and Russia, offering the Vatican as a potential site for peace talks, according to his discussion with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Wednesday. The meeting marked Zelenskiy's second encounter with Leo during the pontiff's new papacy.

In a meeting held at Castel Gandolfo, the pope and Zelenskiy broached the urgent matter of attaining a 'just and lasting peace.' The Ukrainian President, while open to the Vatican's offer, noted Russia's rejection of the proposal, citing NATO encirclement as a concern. Zelenskiy remains focused on securing his country's future as he attends a conference in Italy dedicated to Ukraine's reconstruction.

Leo, the first U.S. pope, emphasizes peace as a key theme of his papacy. His earlier interactions with President Zelenskiy and a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin highlight his commitment to global harmony. U.S. President Donald Trump previously hinted at the Vatican's role, though Leo had not spoken publicly about the offer until now.

(With inputs from agencies.)