Pope Francis has appealed to Ukraine to have the courage to enter into peace negotiations. In an interview with the Italian-language Swiss radio RSI, excerpts from which were broadcast in Rome on Saturday evening, the Pope said: “I believe that the stronger is the one who recognizes the situation, who thinks of the people and has the courage to raise the white flag, to negotiate .” The interview is scheduled to air in full on March 20th.
In the conversation, the church leader said: “Today negotiations are possible with the help of international powers.” Turkey and others offered to act as mediators. “Negotiation is a brave word. When you see your defeat, when you see that things can’t go any further, you have to have the courage to negotiate. Are you ashamed of that? But how many deaths must there be in the end? You have to negotiate in good time and look for a mediator,” said the Pope.
“Never give in”
“Negotiating is never a surrender. It is the courage not to lead the country to suicide,” emphasized Francis, recalling that Ukraine had already suffered a lot under Stalin. In the interview, the Pope again reiterated the view that the only winners in a war are the arms suppliers.
Referring to the war between Hamas and Israel, Francis said: “War always takes two. The irresponsible ones are these two who are waging war.” When asked about a possible negotiated solution, the Pope replied: “Let’s look at history. All the wars we have experienced end with an agreement.” (KNA)