Rome, July 20 (LaPresse) – “The dialogue between the Russian Federation and the Holy See is respectful, continuous, and pragmatic. In these times, it represents a positive exception both on the European stage and globally. This is significant from our perspective and confirms how important the ‘Vatican factor’ is for us on the world political level,” said Ivan Soltanovsky, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Holy See, in an interview with Avvenire.
“We do not see the Holy See as a political mediator,” he added, “however, we consider it a facilitator. Through its actions, it promotes dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv, helping to create a calmer atmosphere that can lead to productive peace talks. Peace is what Russia desires, no less than those who claim to want to end hostilities yet continue to arm Kyiv’s authorities. In fact, the Holy See is already facilitating contacts between the parties. This is demonstrated by its contribution on the humanitarian front, which stems from its moral authority.”
Soltanovsky explained there is “appreciation for the Pope’s proposal” to host representatives from Moscow and Kyiv at the Vatican, “but – he added – due to political circumstances and logistical reasons, it is very difficult to imagine the project coming to fruition. I think, for example, of the European Union’s sanctions regime against Russia, which restricts travel. I believe it is more practical to continue meetings in Turkey, which is a NATO country but has not imposed restrictions. Of course, we do not want to appear ungrateful toward the Pope when we point out feasibility issues. Our Minister of Culture, Olga Borisovna Lyubimova, had to spend ten hours traveling from Moscow to Rome for Pope Francis’ funeral Mass, although we acknowledge the cooperation of Italian authorities that allowed the arrival of the Russian delegation.”