Ukraine has vehemently rejected Pope Francis’s call for negotiations to end the ongoing conflict with Russia.

The Pope’s comments emerged in a transcript of an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI, scheduled to be aired later this month as part of a cultural program.

During the interview, Pope Francis was asked to comment on the ongoing debate regarding Ukraine’s stance towards seeking a settlement with Russia, with the interviewer framing it as waving the “white flag” of surrender.

In response, the Pope was quoted as urging for courage in negotiation, stating, “The strongest one is the one who looks at the situation, thinks about the people and has the courage of the white flag, and negotiates.”

Pushing back

However, Ukraine swiftly pushed back against the Pope’s remarks, viewing them as advocating capitulation.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba emphasized on social media that Ukraine’s flag represents its resilience and determination.

“Our flag is a yellow and blue one. This is the flag by which we live, die, and prevail. We shall never raise any other flags.”

The Pope’s comments have sparked widespread criticism, with some likening them to historical instances of appeasement.

Ukraine’s ambassador to the Vatican drew parallels with those who advocated talks with Adolf Hitler during World War Two, while Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski questioned whether the Pope would encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin to withdraw his army from Ukraine for the sake of balance.