The Ukrainian side appealed to the Holy See for the Pope to try to unblock the humanitarian corridors to ensure the evacuation of civilians from Mariupol.
President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke about this at a press conference, the President’s Office reports.
“I really wanted him to come from the very start, to support our people in the east of the country. I wanted him to try to unblock the humanitarian corridors to Mariupol… It is too early to say, but we are waiting for him. We are waiting because he has a mission – a mission from God. He is trusted by a large number of people, I think this is important,” said the President.
The head of state stressed that Ukraine is grateful to the Vatican and personally to Pope Francis for his support – during speeches at various events, he supports Ukraine and condemns Russian aggression.
Volodymyr Zelensky also recalled his personal encounter with Pope Francis during an audience in the Vatican, where the two discussed the story of Ukrainian National Guardsman Vitaliy Markiv, detained in Italy under Russia’s warrant.
“And he helped as much as he could. And we brought our serviceman home. Because we have to fight for everyone. At least these are my rules of life,” the President of Ukraine summed up.
