Pope Francis has told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky he is constantly praying for peace after the two met privately at the Vatican.
The pontiff also stressed on the urgent need to help “the most fragile people, innocent victims” of the full-scale invasion launched by Russia last year.
Zelensky earlier met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni who assured him of Rome’s support for united Ukraine.
More than 1,000 police are deployed and a no-fly zone over Rome is in place.
In a statement on Saturday, the Holy See said Pope Francis and President Zelensky “discussed the humanitarian and political situation in Ukraine caused by the ongoing war” during a meeting that lasted about 40 minutes.
The Argentine pontiff and President Zelensky “both agreed on the need to continue humanitarian efforts to support the population”.
The statement added: “The Pope has assured his constant prayer and continuous invocation to the Lord for peace – since last February” – when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the full-scale invasion.
Pope Francis has often said that the Vatican stands ready to act as a mediator in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
(BBC)
