Mar 9, 2024,05:10pm EST
Pope Francis has urged Ukraine to demonstrate the “courage of the white flag” in its peace negotiations with Russia, according to excerpts from an interview released on Saturday, marking the latest in a series of controversial remarks from the pontiff regarding the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
KEY FACTS
Francis emphasized the importance of negotiation, stating, “When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate.”
He advocated for both sides to engage in negotiations without hesitation, asserting that negotiation should precede any further escalation of hostilities. Additionally, Francis expressed his willingness, along with several European nations, to act as a mediator for peace talks.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni clarified that Francis used the term “white flag” in the context of a cessation of hostilities, signifying a truce achieved through courageous negotiation.
Bruni reiterated Francis’ support for Ukraine and emphasized the pontiff’s call for diplomatic solutions aimed at achieving a just and enduring peace.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
The full interview with RSI is scheduled to be broadcast on March 20, providing additional insights into Francis’ views on the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
CRUCIAL QUOTE “I think the strongest one is the one who looks at the situation, thinks about the people and has the courage of the white flag, and negotiates,” said Francis, emphasizing the importance of courage in pursuing negotiations.
TANGENT
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan proposed holding a peace summit inclusive of Russia during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Istanbul. Switzerland also offered to organize a conference aimed at facilitating the peace process.
WHAT WE DON’T KNOW
It remains uncertain whether Ukraine will engage in peace talks with Russia. Zelensky outlined a 10-point plan as a prerequisite for any peace agreement, including provisions for food security, troop withdrawal, and prisoner release. Ukrainian officials have expressed reluctance to engage directly with Russia in negotiations.
KEY BACKGROUND
Francis has previously made controversial remarks concerning the Ukraine-Russia conflict. In 2022, he suggested that NATO’s presence near Russia’s border may have contributed to Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine, while also condemning the brutality of the war. He later criticized the aggression of Russian troops invading Ukraine, questioning the factors that precipitated the conflict. Last year, Francis faced criticism for comments encouraging Russian youth to embrace their heritage, drawing concern from Ukrainian religious leaders and prompting varied reactions from the Kremlin.