**Vatican Seeks to Reopen Communication with Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict**
In a significant move, Pope Leo XIV is set to meet with Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, the head of external relations for the Russian Orthodox Church, on July 26. This meeting marks the first audience between the pope and the senior Russian cleric, who represented Patriarch Kirill at Pope Francis’s funeral.
The encounter signals a renewed effort by the Vatican to reopen channels of communication with Moscow’s religious leadership following strained ties caused by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The tension between the two entities has been escalating since Russia’s military campaign began, leading to widespread destruction of churches and persecution of minority religions in Ukraine.
**Russia Presses for Vatican Support**
During a call between Pope Leo XIV and Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 4, the Kremlin urged the Vatican to take an active role in defending what it described as freedom of religion in Ukraine. The Vatican was asked to support the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church, which Kyiv has banned due to its ties with Russia.
The meeting comes just weeks after Pope Leo XIV met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Castel Gandolfo on July 9. During their discussion, the two leaders emphasized the need for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The pope also reiterated his offer to host both Russian and Ukrainian officials for talks.
**Background of Vatican-Russia Relations**
The Vatican has been criticized in the past for statements perceived as relativizing Russia’s responsibility in the war. Pope Leo XIV has previously voiced support for war-torn Ukraine, describing it as “martyred” by Russia’s “senseless war.”
In a statement after meeting with President Zelensky, the pope emphasized the importance of dialogue and religious freedom. However, Moscow has previously dismissed the Vatican as a possible venue for talks.
**The Way Forward**
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the upcoming audience between Pope Leo XIV and Metropolitan Anthony offers an opportunity for renewed dialogue and diplomacy. The Vatican’s efforts to reopen communication with Russia may be seen as a step towards finding common ground and promoting peace in the region.
However, critics argue that such overtures to Moscow could undermine the Ukrainian government’s efforts to combat Russian aggression. As tensions remain high, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the conflict in Ukraine.
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