24 February 2025
 

Mr. President,

Today we mark the third anniversary of the beginning of the Russian aggression against Ukraine. The Holy See expresses deep concern at the protraction of the conflict, which is causing a great loss of life and hardship for the entire Ukrainian population.

Over the past three years, the world has witnessed the far-reaching consequences of this war, also beyond the borders of Ukraine. The conflict has had a profound impact on the global economy, contributing to instability in areas such as food security, energy and nuclear safety, while exacerbating environmental damages. At the humanitarian level, the war’s impact is devastating, especially for the most vulnerable: women and children, refugees, internally displaced persons, those with disabilities, and the elderly have borne the brunt of this crisis, suffering not only from physical harm but also from the erosion of their basic rights and access to essential services. The ripple effects of this war are being felt across the globe, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive and lasting solution to restore peace and prevent further harm to innocent lives.
 
Mr. President,

Allow me to reiterate, in the words of Pope Francis, a principle that has often been forgotten and misunderstood:

“War is always a failure! The involvement of civilians, especially children, and the destruction of infrastructures is not only a disaster, but essentially means that between the two sides only evil emerges the winner. We cannot in any way accept the bombing of civilians or the attacking of infrastructures necessary for their survival.”[1]

Mr. President,

In this Jubilee Year, Pope Francis affirms that his “wish for […] 2025 is that the entire international community will work above all to end the conflict that […] has caused so much bloodshed in war-torn Ukraine and has taken an enormous toll of lives, including those of many civilians.”[2]

For this reason, the Holy See reiterates its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and stresses the urgent need to pursue peace without further delay.

Thank you, Mr. President.

[1] Pope Francis, Address to members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Holy See, 9 January 2025.

[2] Ibid.