Pope Francis holds discussions with Israeli and Ukrainian presidents

Pope Francis held separate discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the morning of April 17, two days before Easter. In the conversation with Herzog, the Pope emphasized the necessity of protecting civilians, respecting international humanitarian law, and reopening diplomatic channels to secure peace in the Middle East. The discussion with Zelenskyy was described by the Vatican as cordial, focusing on the expression of solidarity with the Ukrainian people and humanitarian initiatives, including prisoner exchanges. Since the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Vatican has maintained a role in facilitating prisoner swaps. Additionally, the Pope expressed his hope that U.S. President Donald Trump would actively seek a resolution to the conflict in the Middle East. He further called upon global leaders to return to the negotiating table. Previously, in February, the Pope categorized the achievement of peace in Ukraine as an urgent necessity requiring responsible decision-making.