Vatican City: Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, the Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine, has reaffirmed the Church's unwavering commitment to peace amid ongoing war, emphasizing that while political deadlock continues, humanitarian dialogue still offers a vital path forward. Reflecting on the recent large-scale prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, he noted that even in the absence of political breakthroughs, meaningful human outcomes are still possible.
In harmony with Pope Leo XIV’s heartfelt appeal during the General Audience in St. Peter’s Square, Archbishop Kulbokas highlighted the Pope's urgent call for a transformation of hearts and a collective return to prayer. The Pontiff had voiced deep concern for the Ukrainian people, particularly in light of renewed assaults on civilian populations and critical infrastructure—attacks which, as the Nuncio confirmed, have only intensified.
Responding to a question following the Pope’s appeal, Archbishop Kulbokas underlined the importance of sustained spiritual solidarity. “The Holy Father’s emphasis on prayer is especially crucial now,” he said. “We are entering the fourth year of a war that is not diminishing in violence. Instead, attacks have escalated—especially in Kyiv, where bombings occur almost daily and nightly. No military can completely shield its people under such constant threat.”
Given this grim reality, the Nuncio pointed to the spiritual power of prayer as the most accessible and potent response. “As believers and as members of the human family, we must not underestimate the strength of prayer,” he added. “We’re still in May, the month of the Rosary. I often remember the Virgin Mary’s words at Fatima: ‘Pray, pray, pray. Through prayer, you will overcome destruction and achieve the conversion of hearts.’”
He expressed personal gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for bringing global attention back to this spiritual weapon—one that unites the faithful in a time of helplessness and heartbreak.
On the recent prisoner exchange—the largest since the war began—Archbishop Kulbokas acknowledged the Vatican’s close involvement in humanitarian issues, particularly concerning prisoners. “We are constantly contacted by families, many of whom have lost touch with their loved ones—both soldiers and civilians,” he said.
The swap, which saw 1,000 prisoners released by both sides, was a breakthrough in what otherwise remains a stagnant political landscape. “It was a significant step,” he explained. “The discussions in Istanbul on May 16, though not resolving any political conflicts, at least produced this result. It brought real joy to those reunited with family.”
However, he drew attention to a sobering truth: while military personnel are often included in such exchanges, civilians—especially children—face far greater barriers. “Ukraine has little leverage when it comes to negotiating the release of civilians. Unlike soldiers, there’s little to offer in return. That’s the painful paradox.”
Some of the individuals released were indeed civilians, which brought a measure of hope. But the imbalance remains stark: the number of Ukrainian civilians still detained far exceeds the few Russian civilians held by Ukraine.
In closing, the Archbishop urged continued prayer and deeper international cooperation to support meaningful dialogue, even if progress appears limited. “We must keep praying and working. It’s hard to know the right path at times, but we cannot allow despair to silence our efforts. As the Church and as humanity, we move forward—step by step, prayer by prayer.”