On April 15, in the framework of the visit of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to Italy, Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha held a working meeting with Cardinal Matteo Zuppi.

During the meeting, the Minister conveyed greetings from the President Zelenskyy  and expressed gratitude for the Cardinal’s personal efforts in support of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian side highly values the Cardinal’s humanitarian mission, which reflects the support of the Ukrainian people by Pope Pope Leo XIV.

Particular attention was paid to humanitarian initiatives. In particular, the parties discussed efforts aimed at the return of Ukrainian children, support for their recovery and rehabilitation, as well as the protection of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians. The importance of ensuring access to detention sites in Russia was also emphasized.

The Minister also informed his interlocutor about the current situation on the battlefield and the so-called “Easter ceasefire,” which was violated by Russia at least 2,000 times. Ukraine seeks peace and will continue to make every effort to achieve it.

The parties coordinated concrete steps to achieve further results in humanitarian efforts.