Vatican diplomat reports Moscow peace-focused mission, no breakthrough

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States, reiterated that diplomacy remains a viable path to end the war in Ukraine after high-level talks in Moscow with Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Lavrov, produced no concrete breakthrough. He stressed that the Holy See does not negotiate how the war ends but urges goodwill and dialogue between Russia, Ukraine, and other countries, acknowledging the challenges of brokering peace. Gallagher commented that historically conflicts end through negotiation and an eventual agreement, signaling a long-term diplomatic commitment despite the difficulties and casualties. The Moscow mission highlighted logistical and political hurdles, including a notably longer travel route due to EU-Russia disruptions, underscoring the Holy See’s perseverance in pursuing dialogue. Reports also noted an unusual convergence of diplomacy and intelligence interests, with CIA Director John Ratcliffe visiting Moscow as Gallagher pressed for peaceful engagement and political/diplomatic work to avert further military escalation. Taken together, the coverage portrays a coordinated, multi-faceted effort by the Holy See to promote peace in Ukraine through dialogue, while recognizing the complex international environment that shapes the path to any settlement.