The Pope stated that dialogue with Russia cannot be ruled out, even when the prospect is uncomfortable or unsettling. He reaffirmed today that engaging with warring nations remains possible, acknowledging that the situation is disquieting yet insisting that it should still be pursued. He spoke during a press conference held on the papal plane on his return from a three-day trip to Kazakhstan, noting that there is no explicit red line preventing conversations with Russia.
In his remarks, the Pope, seated in a chair toward the rear of the aircraft due to knee problems, emphasized the importance of attempting dialogue with all parties, including what he described as the aggressor country. He underscored that it is always challenging to understand calls for talks with states that have initiated conflict, but argued that such dialogues should not be categorically dismissed. He asserted that offering everyone the chance to engage could lead to unexpected openings and potential change.
He added that the effort to dialogue should be pursued even amid warlike tensions, stressing that the path to peace often requires conversations that may appear awkward or controversial. The Pope did not name Russia explicitly on this occasion, choosing instead to focus on the broader principle of opening channels of communication in pursuit of reconciliation and a possible de-escalation of hostilities [Vatican News].