Pope Francis believes Ukraine should have what he called the courage of the “white flag” and negotiate an end to the war with Russia that began after a full-scale Russian invasion two years ago.
.in_text_content_22 { width: 300px; height: 600px; } @media(min-width: 600px) { .in_text_content_22 { width: 580px; height: 400px; } }
He stated this in an interview with the Swiss television and radio company RSI in early February, but the text version of the interview appeared only today, March 9, reports Reuters.
Thus, Francis’ statement was made a month before Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that his country was ready to once again host peace negotiations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation.
In the interview, Francis was asked about his position in the dispute between those who believe Ukraine should surrender because it failed to repel Russian forces and those who argue that this legitimizes the actions of the stronger side. The interviewer used the term “white flag” in the question.
This is one interpretation, it is true,” Francis said. “But I think that the most powerful person looking at the situation thinks about the people and has the courage of the white flag and negotiates.
According to Francis, negotiations should take place with the help of international forces.
The word “negotiation” is a courageous word. When you see that you are defeated, that things are bad, you must have the courage to negotiate,” he added.
Francis is believed to have used terms such as “white flag” or “loser” for the first time while discussing the war in Ukraine, although he has spoken in the past about the need for negotiations.
“You can feel shame,” Francis said about the negotiations, “but how many deaths will it (the war – ed.) bring in the end? (Ed.) negotiate on time, find a country that can act as a mediator.
He ordered Turkey among the countries that proposed their candidacy, and also answered “I’m here” when asked if he was ready to be a mediator.
Don’t hesitate to negotiate before things get worse, says Francis.
Source: Reuters
Source: Racurs
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.