Statement by the Vatican Secretary of State
The Secretary of State of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, announced the Vatican's position on the ongoing war of Russia against Ukraine. In his statement, he confirmed that Ukraine has the legitimate right to defend its territory, while simultaneously emphasising the critical need to halt hostilities.
Assessment of the situation and calls for peace
According to the Cardinal, a true tragedy is unfolding in Ukraine, and the approach of the winter season only deepens concerns about the humanitarian situation. Pietro Parolin stressed: «Не можна відмовляти народу у праві на самооборону» (One cannot deny a people the right to self-defence).
At the same time, he noted that the Holy See considers it urgent to put an end to hostilities. The Vatican expressed its readiness to support any initiatives aimed at achieving an «негайного, повного та ефективного припинення вогню» (immediate, complete and effective ceasefire).
Conditions for aid and the future of security
Commenting on the intensification of attacks resulting in casualties, Parolin stated that the Vatican is ready to provide assistance «будь-яким чином» (in any way). However, he emphasised a condition: strict adherence to the norms of international law must remain the key priority.
Summarising his view, the Cardinal added: «Довгострокове вирішення не може обійтися без оновленого зобов’язання щодо безпеки та співпраці в Європі» (A long-term solution cannot be achieved without a renewed commitment to security and cooperation in Europe).
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