Putin assured the Pope of his desire for peace, accusing Kyiv of escalation.
Kyiv • UNN
Russian media reported on a phone call between Putin and Pope Francis, during which the dictator expressed interest in a peaceful settlement, while accusing Ukraine of escalating the conflict and engaging in terrorism.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin held telephone talks with Pope Leo XIV. The Kremlin said that Putin, in a conversation with the Pope, allegedly confirmed his interest in achieving peace in Ukraine through political and diplomatic means. This is reported by UNN with reference to Russian media.
Details
During the exchange of views on the situation in Ukraine, Putin confirmed his interest in achieving peace through political and diplomatic means, and stressed that in order to definitively, fairly and comprehensively resolve the crisis, it is necessary to eliminate its root causes.
In the context of the resumption of direct Russian-Ukrainian negotiations in Istanbul, the Russian dictator stressed that "the Russian side is taking all possible measures to reunite children with their relatives." He also complained to the Pope that "the Kyiv regime is betting on escalating the conflict."
Putin also noted the pontiff's willingness to facilitate the settlement of the crisis, in particular, with the participation of the Vatican on a depoliticized basis in resolving acute humanitarian issues.
In addition, the Russian dictator "expressed hope that the Holy See will be more active in supporting freedom of religion in Ukraine."
Putin also told the Pope about some mythical "Kyiv's strike on civilians the other day," which is allegedly "unambiguously qualified in international law as terrorism."
Let us remind you
Earlier today, the Russian dictator said that he does not see the possibility of negotiations with Ukraine at the highest level, calling the Ukrainian authorities "terrorist." Putin said that a break in hostilities would be used to prepare terrorist attacks.