Prime Minister of Ukraine meets with the Pope

Denys Shmyhal and the Pope. Photo: vaticannews.va

On April 27, 2023, Pope Francis met with Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal.

As reported in the communique of the Vatican Press Hall, during the conversation, the pontiff and the prime minister discussed issues related to the war in Ukraine.

Particular attention in the conversation was paid to the humanitarian aspect and efforts to restore peace, in particular, Shmyhal expressed the hope that the Vatican would return to participate in the process of returning prisoners and deportees.

The report also says that the Ukrainian prime minister and Pope Francis discussed "various topics relating to the life of the Churches in the country."

After a conversation with the head of the RCC, the Ukrainian politician met with Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Pope had declared his readiness to mediate in the negotiations on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra.

Read also

Abducted Ukrainian Deacon Dies During Military Training

Abducted and conscripted Ukrainian deacon Orest Cherny, known for his devotion and sacred singing, tragically died at age 46 during military training, leaving a legacy of faith and humility.

Court Hearing on Expulsion of Monks from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra Postponed Again

A long-delayed monastery lawsuit against a sanctuary faces yet another indefinite postponement after the presiding judge went on sick leave.

OCA Clergy Gather for Winter Synaxis Focused on Renewal and Resilience

More than 100 OCA clergy gathered online for the Winter 2025 Synaxis to pray, learn, and reflect on sustaining pastoral ministry and avoiding burnout through renewal in Christ.

Trump Administration Moves to Ban Federally Funded Transgender Procedures for Minors

The Trump administration is moving to bar federally funded hospitals from performing transgender medical procedures on minors, citing evidence of harm and a duty to protect children.

Bp. Theodosius: Ukraine's Authorities Classify Icons as Works of Art and Relics as Mummies

ROCOR hierarch links current policies toward holy sites and clergy to Soviet-era repression, calls for prayer and respect for religious freedom.

Society of St. John's Day of Action Gives Hope Persecution of UOC May Subside, Analyst Says

Political scientist says congressional outreach and high-level U.S. statements signal possible shift in response to persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.