Karol Darmoros
Escalation in Ukraine
Card. Parolin answered journalists’ questions during the presentation of the book “Easter of Peace. From John XXIII to Leo XIV towards the 2033 Jubilee” by journalist and Tg2 director Antonio Preziosi.
Commenting on the latest developments in Ukraine, the Secretary of State assessed that the situation is heading in the opposite direction from what was expected.
“It seems to me that unfortunately we are going in the opposite direction: an escalation is taking place, while prospects for peace still do not exist,” he said.
The cardinal cited information provided by Abp. Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, who returned from a six-day mission to Ukraine. On Saturday night, one of the heaviest Russian attacks since the start of the war took place there.
Return to negotiations
Referring to the situation concerning Iran, Card. Parolin expressed concern and stated that the memorandum between Washington and Tehran is no longer valid.
“I do not know how this matter will end. I think few know, and perhaps no one,” he stated. As he noted, there was hope that the signed agreement would be effective.
The Secretary of State expressed hope for a return to negotiations and reaching a lasting agreement “for the good of this country, as well as for the good of the world.” “Such situations threaten peace,” he emphasized.
Bridges instead of walls
Card. Parolin also commented on reports regarding a wall being built by the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip.
“We can repeat this in the form of a slogan: »no« to walls, »yes« to bridges,” he said, pointing out that these words express the Holy See’s position on this initiative.
Bologna: truth against violence
The Secretary of State also referred to acts of violence that occurred in Bologna following the death of Abderrahim Fakir. The businessman of Moroccan origin died during a police intervention. Card. Parolin expressed hope that the truth will be established and that the proceedings will be conducted “in an atmosphere of calm, certainly without violence.”
Card. Parolin further stressed that the Church does not stop reminding people of the values serving peace and dialogue. Referring to the parable of the sower, he expressed hope that these words “will bear fruit” and serve “peaceful and constructive coexistence.”
