Rome, Italy – May 17, 2025 In a meeting held at the Holy See today, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions with Archbishop of Bologna and President of Italian Bishops’ Conference, Papal Envoy for Ukraine Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, regarding ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
During the meeting, Secretary Rubio reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the crisis. He acknowledged the Holy See’s role as a mediator and expressed gratitude for its longstanding efforts to facilitate exchanges of prisoners between Ukrainian and Russian forces.
Secretary Rubio emphasized that the U.S. values the Vatican’s involvement in this process, citing its history of brokering peace agreements and supporting prisoner releases. The Secretary also noted the specific concern for the safety of children who have been taken from their homes by Ukrainian forces, emphasizing the need to address this humanitarian issue as part of any potential agreement.
The discussions with Cardinal Zuppi represent a significant development in diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict in Ukraine, and the U.S. looks forward to continuing its close cooperation with the Holy See on this critical issue.