Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held a phone call with the Secretary of State of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Andriy Yermak informed him about today’s Russian strikes on Kyiv and Odesa, which resulted in deaths, injuries, and damage to civilian infrastructure. Russia used hundreds of “Shahed” drones along with cruise and ballistic missiles in the attacks. The Head of the Presidential Office stressed that these strikes once again demonstrate that Russia is not willing to establish peace, doing whatever it takes to keep the war going as long as possible.
The Head of the Office of the President also thanked Pope Leo XIV for his prayers for Ukraine and efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace.
Particular and detailed attention during the conversation was devoted to the return of Ukrainian children who were unlawfully deported and relocated by Russia. Andriy Yermak and Pietro Parolin agreed to continue close cooperation on this humanitarian issue, which remains one of Ukraine’s highest priorities.