ISTANBUL

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday expressed condolences over the death of Pope Francis, describing him as a spiritual figure who consistently advocated for peace in Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion.

“We remember his prayers for peace in Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said during a meeting with the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organizations.

Zelenskyy emphasized in a statement on X the importance of spiritual diplomacy amid the war, praising religious leaders for their role in rallying global attention to Ukraine’s suffering.

“Ukraine needs the support of religious communities — spiritual diplomacy, the diplomacy of values, always helps,” he said.

The president also noted that Russian strikes continue despite the Easter season, underlining that “a real ceasefire is needed, as is a lasting and solid peace.”

Religious organizations in Ukraine have played a key role in providing humanitarian support and amplifying calls for peace across international platforms throughout the conflict.