Krzysztof Bronk – Vatican
Speaking with Vatican News, he emphasizes that if Ukraine had not taken the brunt of Russia’s attack, Poland today could be at war with Russia. In his opinion, what Mary announced in Fatima is unfolding in Ukraine. „Victory will be the triumph of God”.
Like on the front line
Bishop Sobiło admits that the situation in Zaporizhzhia is becoming increasingly depressing. „When I celebrated Mass this morning, I had the impression that we were on the front line. Missiles fly over our heads and explode. Like in a movie. And then we go out and find out that many have been killed and wounded”.
Drones flying between buildings
The auxiliary bishop of Zaporizhzhia adds that such situations are now commonplace. The front line is getting closer. Explosions day and night. Drones fly between buildings. Many people are thinking of leaving the city because of the children who live in constant fear.
I don’t remember a winter like this
The population also suffers the consequences of the destruction caused by the Russians to the energy infrastructure. Without electricity, there is no heating. People are freezing. And this winter is exceptionally harsh. „I have lived in Zaporizhzhia for 33 years, and neither I nor the people I talk to remember a winter like this. Such frosts and snow” – says Bishop Sobiło.
Albertine Brothers bake bread, 2,000 hungry people come daily
He emphasizes that people rely on humanitarian aid, which is, however, becoming scarcer. The Church shares what it has. The Albertine Brothers continue to bake bread and distribute canned goods. Approximately 2,000 hungry people come at a time.
Appeal to Poles
In connection with the extraordinary collection for Ukraine announced by the Polish Episcopate, Bishop Sobiło first thanks Poles for what they have already done, for how they have welcomed Ukrainian refugees and patiently endure their presence. „I want to ask you to help us survive this winter” – says the Bishop of Zaporizhzhia.
If we lost, war in Poland
He also reminds that Ukraine took the brunt of Russia’s attack. „If it had lost in 2022, then probably Poland would have had the same problems, meaning either Russia would be preparing for war with Poland, or Poland would already be at war with Russia and they would not let you live in peace”.
Message from Fatima
According to Bishop Sobiło, what Mary spoke about in Fatima, when she warned against the errors of Russia, is being realized in Ukraine today. „Now a breakthrough, a triumph of God, is to take place, and only then will Russia convert” – adds the Ukrainian bishop.
Unequivocal support from Leo XIV and Vatican media
In an interview with Vatican Radio (Vatican News), he also expresses his gratitude to Leo XIV, who unequivocally supports Ukrainians and sends humanitarian aid through Cardinal Krajewski. Bishop Sobiło also emphasizes the importance of Vatican media. In 2014, when the war began, Vatican Radio was the only one providing regular information about what was happening in Ukraine. The same is happening now. Less and less is being said about Ukraine; it has become an inconvenient topic, the media are silent about it, and consequently, some even think the war is over. We hope that the Vatican will remember us until the Day of Victory, which will also be the triumph of God – adds Bishop Sobiło.
He emphasizes that at this moment, in addition to spiritual solidarity and prayer, Ukrainians most need generators, food, blankets, and medicine.
