VATICAN CITY: In a recent interview broadcast by Swiss television, Pope Francis delivered a powerful message urging parties involved in the Ukraine war to prioritize negotiation and peace-building efforts before the situation escalates further. The 87-year-old pontiff emphasized the importance of having the courage to engage in dialogue and seek peaceful resolutions amidst conflict.
Addressing the ongoing debate within Ukraine on whether to surrender to Russia’s invasion, Pope Francis highlighted the significance of considering the well-being of the people and making bold decisions to initiate negotiations. “I believe that the strongest are those who see the situation, think about the people, and have the courage to raise the white flag and negotiate,” he stated during the interview conducted in early February.
The pontiff stressed the bravery required to pursue negotiations, especially when faced with adversity and the realization that current strategies are not yielding positive outcomes. “That word negotiate is a brave word. When you see that you are defeated, that things are not working out, to have the courage to negotiate,” he expressed, emphasizing the human cost of prolonged conflicts and the urgency for peaceful resolutions.
Amidst the conflict in Ukraine, Pope Francis acknowledged the role of potential mediators such as Turkey and encouraged parties not to hesitate in seeking diplomatic solutions. “Don’t be ashamed to negotiate before things get worse,” he urged, underscoring the importance of proactive peace-building measures.
Expanding his perspective to encompass broader conflicts, including the Hamas-Israel war, Pope Francis reiterated the value of negotiations as a means to prevent further escalation and loss of life. “Negotiations are never a surrender. It is the courage not to carry a country to suicide,” he emphasized, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy as essential tools for conflict resolution.
Following the interview, the Vatican’s director of communications, Matteo Bruni, clarified the pope’s remarks, explaining that the term “white flag” symbolized a cessation of hostilities achieved through courageous negotiations. Bruni reiterated Pope Francis’s call for a diplomatic solution aimed at establishing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, a nation the pontiff referred to as “martyred” by ongoing conflicts.
When questioned about the Israel-Hamas war, Pope Francis emphasized shared responsibility for conflicts, stating, “War is made by two, not one. The irresponsible ones are these two who wage war.” By holding both sides accountable and advocating for dialogue over violence, the pontiff reiterated his commitment to promoting peace and reconciliation on a global scale.
In conclusion, Pope Francis’s message resonates as a powerful call for courage, compassion, and dialogue in resolving conflicts and fostering peace. His advocacy for negotiation as a pathway to sustainable peace underscores the importance of prioritizing human lives and collective well-being in times of crisis.
