Russian ambassador on peace talks in Vatican: 'Very hard to imagine'

20.07.2025 19:57

Ukrinform

Russian Ambassador to the Vatican Ivan Soltanovsky says it is "very hard to imagine" the possibility of holding peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in the Vatican, as proposed by Pope Leo XIV.

Soltanovsky made the statement in an interview with the Italian newspaper Avvenire, Ukrinform reports, citing Kathpress.

"In a lengthy interview with the Catholic daily newspaper Avvenire (Sunday online edition), Ivan Soltanovsky said the Pope's proposal was valued, but due to the political framework and logistical factors, 'it is very difficult to imagine that it could be realized'," the report said.

The Russian ambassador pointed to EU sanctions against Russia as a limiting factor on freedom of movement, suggesting that further meetings in Turkey would be more feasible.

Soltanovsky also reiterated Kremlin propaganda claims, arguing that achieving lasting peace requires addressing the "root causes of the conflict," including Ukraine's neutral status and the protection of "Russian-speaking" populations and the rights of the Russian Orthodox Church.

He added that a papal visit to Russia is not currently on the agenda.

Pope Leo XIV had earlier proposed hosting peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in the Vatican.