President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi spent a meeting in the Vatican with US Vice President Jay D. Vance. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also took part in the talks.
“A good meeting with the Vice President of the United States of America JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Rome. Talks in Istanbul were discussed, where the Russians sent a low-level delegation that did not have the authority to make decisions. I confirmed Ukraine’s readiness for real diplomacy and emphasized the importance of a full and unconditional ceasefire as soon as possible.” – said Zelenskyi.
This is the first official meeting between Zelenskyi and Vance after a public conflict in the White House in February of this year with the participation of Donald Trump. The parties touched on the issue of strengthening sanctions against Russia, discussed the possibilities of expanding bilateral trade, cooperation in the defense sector, the current situation at the front and further steps regarding the exchange of prisoners. It was noted that the pressure on the Russian Federation should be maintained until the moment when it demonstrates its readiness to stop aggression.
“And, of course, we discussed our joint steps to achieve a just and lasting peace. Thank you to all the American people for your support and leadership in saving lives.” – concluded the President of Ukraine.
The meeting took place on May 18 in Rome, where the enthronement ceremony of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV took place. The new pontiff officially headed the Roman Catholic Church.
