Pope Leo Opposes US-Led Ukraine Peace Framework/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Leo XIV criticized U.S. efforts under President Trump to weaken the transatlantic alliance while asserting Europe’s essential role in resolving the Ukraine war. After meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, the pope emphasized the need for inclusive peace negotiations. He also reiterated the Vatican’s push to return abducted Ukrainian children.
Europe’s Peace Role in Ukraine Quick Looks:
- Pope Leo XIV says Europe must be included in any Ukraine peace deal.
- Criticizes Trump administration’s attempt to divide U.S.-Europe alliance.
- Speaks after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Italy.
- Warns against excluding European powers from peace negotiations.
- U.S. national security strategy signals shift toward U.S.-Russia relations.
- Pope calls for ceasefire and return of abducted Ukrainian children.
- Vatican maintains neutrality but advocates for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
- Leo met three times with Zelenskyy and contacted Putin.
- Reaffirms support for humanitarian actions amid ongoing war.
- Urges unity among European leaders to pursue peace.
Deep Look
Pope Leo XIV Denounces US Strategy, Demands Europe Inclusion in Ukraine Peace Talks
ROME — In a pointed critique of current U.S. foreign policy, Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday condemned efforts by the Trump administration to “break apart” the traditional U.S.-European alliance and insisted that Europe must play a central role in any negotiated settlement to end the war in Ukraine.
Speaking to journalists after a private meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the pontiff emphasized that excluding Europe from the peace process was not only shortsighted but dangerous, given the war’s direct impact on the continent.
“Seeking a peace agreement without including Europe in the talks is unrealistic, given the war is in Europe,” Pope Leo stated. He added that peace talks must account for both immediate ceasefire goals and long-term security guarantees, areas where Europe’s involvement is essential. “Europe must be part of this, and unfortunately not everyone understands this,” he said, urging European leaders to unite and seize the opportunity to influence the peace process.
A Response to the Trump Administration’s Policy Shift
The pope’s comments followed the recent release of the Trump administration’s national security strategy, which reflects a noticeable pivot away from multilateral cooperation with Europe and gestures instead toward improving ties with Russia. That shift has raised concerns among European leaders and Vatican officials alike.
Though asked specifically about the U.S. proposal for Ukraine peace, Leo responded more broadly to the strategic implications of Washington’s changing stance.
“What I have read would make a huge change in what was for many, many years a true alliance between Europe and the United States,” he said.
He went further, accusing the Trump administration of undermining a vital transatlantic relationship.
“There seems to be an effort to break apart what I think needs to be an alliance today and in the future,” Leo warned. While acknowledging that some Americans support this divergence, the pope noted that “many others would see things in a different way.”
Vatican Stance on the War in Ukraine
The Holy See has walked a delicate line throughout Russia’s war in Ukraine, maintaining a posture of neutrality while consistently supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty and the humanitarian needs of its people. Pope Leo has described Ukrainians as a “martyred” population, repeatedly calling for an end to the violence and for moral responsibility among the world’s political leaders.
Tuesday’s meeting marked Leo’s third official encounter with President Zelenskyy. The two leaders reportedly discussed potential avenues for a ceasefire, ongoing peace negotiations, and humanitarian issues—chief among them, the abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian authorities.
The Vatican has actively advocated for the return of these children and facilitated high-level conversations aimed at securing their safe release. Just last month, Pope Leo welcomed several of the returned children to the Vatican, highlighting the Church’s continued commitment to their welfare.
Ukraine’s Multi-Document Peace Framework
Zelenskyy, on his latest European diplomatic tour, has outlined a three-document framework being negotiated with both U.S. and European partners. The package includes:
- A general framework of 20 peace points.
- A document addressing future security guarantees for Ukraine.
- A plan for the country’s postwar recovery.
While the U.S. appears to be leading the negotiations, concerns have arisen over Europe’s marginal role. Pope Leo’s comments directly challenge that imbalance, arguing that peace efforts without the European Union’s participation are bound to fall short.
Call for European Unity and Global Accountability
The pope’s appeal is not only to American officials but also to Europe’s political leadership.
“I think there is a great opportunity for European leaders to unite and seek a solution together,” he said. The Vatican hopes such unity will drive a more balanced and inclusive peace process that prioritizes long-term regional stability.
While refraining from direct political endorsement, the pope’s remarks suggest a strong disapproval of unilateral approaches to diplomacy—especially in conflicts as complex and far-reaching as the war in Ukraine.
With Europe deeply affected by the war through refugee crises, energy instability, and rising political tensions, Leo’s call for collective leadership strikes a chord. The message was clear: without Europe, peace in Ukraine will remain out of reach.
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