A representative of the Pope visited Ukrainian prisoners of war in Russia

The Pope’s Special Envoy for Humanitarian Affairs, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, visited a camp where Ukrainian prisoners of war are being held during his visit to Moscow.

The cardinal spoke with the prisoners and conveyed a message of solidarity from Pope Leo XIV. Zuppi also expressed hope that the Ukrainians would be able to return home in the near future.

The visit to Moscow marked Cardinal Zuppi’s third humanitarian mission. His previous trips took place in June 2023 and October 2024.

During his three-day stay in Russia, he also met with Russian Presidential Adviser Yuri Ushakov. The parties discussed issues related to prisoners of war and civilians, the search for missing persons, family reunification, and the repatriation of minors.

In addition, Zuppi held meetings with Russian Human Rights Commissioner Yana Lantratova and Children’s Rights Commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova.

Source: Vatican

Pope Leo XIV stated that the parties to the negotiations on ending the war must be prepared to compromise on certain positions in order to achieve peace. He made this statement on September 28 during an address to European leaders in Metz, France.

On the first day of his visit to France, Pope Leo XIV criticized the new law on assisted dying. In a speech at the Élysée Palace, he stated that the right to life must remain the foundation of all other human rights.

Pope Leo XIV celebrates his 71st birthday on September 14. On this occasion, the Vatican is receiving congratulations from various countries around the world.