Pope urges Ukraine to raise the white flag

Pope Francis and Zelensky. Photo: Vatican Media

Pope Francis stated that Ukraine is suffering defeat and therefore should raise the white flag and start negotiations with Russia, Reuters reports.

In an interview, the Pope was asked about his position in the debates between those who argue that Ukraine should surrender because it failed to resist Russian forces and those who say doing so would legitimise actions by the strongest party. The interviewer used the term "white flag" in the question.

"It is one interpretation, and this is true," said Francis, according to an advance transcript of the interview and a partial video, the full version of which will air on March 20.

"But I think that 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," Francis said, adding that talks should take place with the help of international powers.

"The word negotiate is a courageous word. When you see that you are defeated, that things are not going well, you have to have the courage to negotiate," Francis said.

"One may feel shame," Francis said about negotiating, "but how many dead will it (the war) end up with? (One should) negotiate in time, find a country that can be a mediator," Francis said, mentioning Turkey among the mediator countries.

"Do not be ashamed of negotiating before things get worse," he said, adding that he is ready to become a mediator.

Earlier, the President's Office referred to the Pope as "pro-Russian" and ruled out the Vatican's participation in mediating with Russia.

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