German bishops criticize Pope’s ‘white flag’ statement

In Germany, a conference of bishops called on the Vatican to explain Pope Francis’ words about the “white flag” and negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. The corresponding statement on Monday, March 11, was published on the Facebook page of the Deutsche Bischofskonferenz.

The German bishops noticed that these words led to misunderstandings and violent protests in society. They believe that using the linguistic image of the “white flag” is not successful.

Once the issue is clarified, it is possible to understand and debate Francis’s statements, they added. “Does it make sense to call Ukraine, and not Russia, for negotiations? Is it possible to recognize the real readiness of Moscow for negotiations at this stage? What conditions must be created so that a terrible war – a Russia’s aggressive war against a neighboring country, in violation of international law, – can be ended through negotiations? – said the statement.

The bishops stressed that Ukraine must decide for itself when the time comes for peace talks, and they can understand people’s irritation that the Pope did not address these points in the interview.

Let’s remember that in an interview, Pope Francis said that Ukraine “must have the courage to raise the white flag.” His words caused a great resonance both in Ukraine and around the world.

Later, the press service of the Holy See explained that the Pope did not mean surrender, but a return to negotiations.

Kuleba sa Papa: Our flag is blue and yellow