Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "It was a pleasure to welcome Cardinal Matteo Zuppi back to Kyiv after our meeting in Rome this April. 

I thanked Cardinal Zuppi for the Holy See's unwavering humanitarian engagement and presented him with a gift from Ukrainian children as a token of gratitude for the Vatican's efforts to help return Ukrainian children home and provide them with rehabilitation and respite. 

I briefed Cardinal Zuppi on the battlefield situation, Ukraine's peace efforts, and our vision for a comprehensive and lasting peace. Ukraine seeks to end this war more than anyone. At the same time, our rapidly growing defense industry and battlefield experience are making Ukraine an increasingly important contributor to European security. 

We paid particular attention to the fate of Ukrainian civilian detainees, who remain outside effective international protection mechanisms. I asked for the Holy See's continued support in advancing a dedicated humanitarian track for their release.  

I also drew attention to the humanitarian situation in the Russian-occupied communities of Oleshky and Hola Prystan, where thousands of civilians urgently need a humanitarian corridor. 

I informed Cardinal Zuppi about the recent Russian strike on the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra. As Ukraine prepares to mark the Lavra's 975th anniversary this August, protecting and restoring this UNESCO World Heritage site remains one of our priorities, and we value the Holy See's support in preserving our shared cultural and spiritual heritage. 

I also expressed my gratitude for Pope Leo XIV's constant prayers for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. We highly value the Holy See's moral authority, humanitarian leadership, and steadfast solidarity with Ukraine."