Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Pope Francis on October 11, marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing dialogue about the war in Ukraine.
Gifted Painting
This encounter, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, took place in the Vatican and was noted for Zelensky's traditional attire, a symbol of his country's resilience since the onset of the Russian aggression, according to SE.
During the meeting, Zelensky presented Pope Francis with a powerful gift: a painting that depicts a scene from the brutal massacre in Bucha, carried out by Russian forces in March 2022.
The artwork features a young girl named Marichka amidst the ruins of her city, surrounded by the bodies of victims. She is described as a witness to the torture and atrocities committed by Russian soldiers against her family.
Gave book in return
Along with the painting, Zelensky provided harrowing information indicating that 600 people lost their lives in Bucha, which has become emblematic of Russian violence, looting, and sexual assault.
In return, the Pope gifted Zelensky a book titled "Persecuted for the Truth: Ukrainian Greek-Catholics Behind the Iron Curtain," published by the Vatican press.
He also presented a bronze bas-relief sculpture titled "Peace is a Fragile Flower," signifying the ongoing quest for peace in Ukraine.
This meeting marks the third time Pope Francis has met with Zelensky since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022.
After his audience with the Pope, Zelensky engaged in discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, and Archbishop Richard Gallagher, the head of Vatican diplomacy.
These conversations focused on the war's humanitarian impact and potential pathways to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
