War in Ukraine: Pope Francis calls for “the courage to negotiate”
“
Hoist the white flag
” on the Ukrainian front.
This is the call of Pope Francis.
On Saturday March 9, he gave an interview to the Swiss television channel RTS.
The sovereign pontiff urges Ukraine, facing possible defeat, to sit down at a discussion table with Russia.
Concerning the war in Ukraine, “we must negotiate in time,” François (our photo) told RTS, on March 9, 2024. “We must look for countries ready to serve as mediators.”
© GUGLIELMO MANGIAPANE / POOL / AFP
By: RFI Follow
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“
Negotiate
” is a word that often comes up in the mouth of
Pope Francis
.
On the second anniversary of the Russian invasion, he called for peace in Ukraine.
The sovereign pontiff reiterates his appeal: “
I think that the strongest is the one who sees the situation, who thinks of the people, who has the courage to raise the white flag... and to negotiate.
Negotiating is a brave word
.
»
The message is shared in particular by Turkey.
On Friday March 8, Turkish President Erdogan said he was ready to host a
peace summit
between Russia and Ukraine.
The Pope welcomes this.
A counter to the recent remarks of the French president, who toughens his tone towards Russia.
“
We must not be ashamed
”
“
We must negotiate in time
,” François said again.
We must look for countries ready to serve as mediators.
Today, for example, in the war in Ukraine, many people want to mediate.
Turkey has offered to do so.
Don't be ashamed to negotiate before the situation gets worse.
»
Following this interview with Radio Télévision Suisse (RTS), the Vatican wanted to provide details.
Negotiating does not mean giving in: “
The Pope is not calling on Ukraine to capitulate
.”
An express correction to avoid controversies.
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