Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone conversation with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin on Friday, March 14, to discuss humanitarian concerns amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

During the call, President Zelensky extended his well wishes for Pope Francis' recovery and expressed gratitude for the Holy See’s moral support for Ukraine. He also acknowledged Vatican efforts to facilitate the return of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly deported or displaced by Russia.

The discussion took place against the backdrop of a US-mediated proposal for a 30-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, which the Kremlin is currently reviewing.

Zelensky shared details of his conversation with Cardinal Parolin in a post on social media, emphasizing Ukraine’s reliance on Vatican diplomacy for the release of prisoners and deported individuals. He noted that the Holy See had received a list of Ukrainians detained in Russian prisons and camps and expressed hope for its support in securing their release.

The Ukrainian president reaffirmed his country's commitment to taking steps toward peace, highlighting a prisoner exchange and the proposed ceasefire as key measures. He also underscored the importance of the Holy See’s voice in efforts to end the conflict.

The Vatican has been actively involved in humanitarian initiatives, particularly concerning the return of over 19,000 Ukrainian minors taken to Russia. President Zelensky has previously thanked the Holy See for its diplomatic efforts on this issue, including during his meetings with Pope Francis. His latest appeal follows ongoing Vatican interventions aimed at securing prisoner exchanges and repatriations.

A significant element of the Vatican's involvement has been the diplomatic mission led by Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, who has engaged with leaders in Kyiv, Moscow, Washington, and Beijing. His efforts have contributed to establishing mechanisms for prisoner exchanges and the return of Ukrainian children.

Cardinal Zuppi’s mission was also instrumental in securing the release of two Redemptorist priests, Ivan Levytskyi and Bohdan Heleta, who had been detained since November 2022. Their release was facilitated through a prisoner exchange on June 29, 2024.

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, reiterated the Holy See’s commitment to humanitarian efforts during the Peace Formula Conference in Montreal. He highlighted the Vatican’s role in ensuring the repatriation of deported individuals and the ongoing dialogue between representatives from both sides of the conflict.

The Holy See continues to advocate for the return of Ukrainian prisoners, the repatriation of children, and the respectful handling of deceased soldiers’ remains. Apostolic nuncios in Ukraine and Russia remain engaged in diplomatic efforts, working with Catholic institutions to support repatriated families.

The conversation between Zelensky and Cardinal Parolin underscores the Vatican’s continued role in fostering humanitarian aid and diplomatic dialogue amid the war.