Vatican Foreign Minister Archbishop Gallagher Reaffirms Commitment to Peace Following Russia Mission

 Vatican Foreign Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Peace Following Moscow Mission

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States, has concluded a diplomatic trip to Moscow, reiterating the Vatican's commitment to dialogue and peace despite the geopolitical challenges surrounding the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Following a grueling 12-hour return flight to Rome via Istanbul—necessitated by current airspace restrictions between Russia and the European Union—Archbishop Gallagher spoke with Vatican News about the core insights and outcomes of his mission.

Key Takeaways from the Diplomatic Mission

• The Stance on Peaceful Resolution: Addressing meetings with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Presidential Adviser Yury Ushakov, Gallagher emphasized that all conflicts eventually end in negotiation. The Holy See encourages goodwill and dialogue without dictating specific technical solutions, leaving negotiation details to the belligerents.

• Prioritizing Humanitarian Efforts: The Archbishop noted that Pope Francis explicitly requested a strong focus on the humanitarian dimension. The Holy See plans to continue these initiatives, including future follow-up visits by Cardinal Matteo Zuppi.

• Standing Offer for Good Offices: While Russian authorities expressed appreciation for the Vatican's involvement, there has been no immediate request for direct Vatican mediation. Nevertheless, the Holy See maintains its open offer to assist both Russia and Ukraine in any capacity requested.

• Maintaining Open Channels: Gallagher highlighted that the Holy See occupies a unique position in today's diplomatic landscape by actively maintaining open dialogue with both Moscow and Kyiv. Additionally, conversations with Minister Lavrov touched on joint concerns regarding the protection and discrimination of Christians globally.

• Ecumenical Engagements: During a cordial meeting with Metropolitan Antonij of Volokolamsk of the Moscow Patriarchate, both sides reaffirmed shared commitments to Gospel values despite differing views on specific issues.

Support for the Local Catholic Community

During his trip, Archbishop Gallagher met with local clergy, religious orders, and the Catholic faithful in Russia, encouraging them to act as everyday agents of peace through their charitable, educational, and healthcare ministries.

The mission concluded with a well-attended solemn Mass at Moscow’s Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. Impressed by the vitality of the local Catholic community, Gallagher assured them of the universal Church’s continued closeness, spiritual support, and ongoing prayers for lasting peace and justice.

Source - https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2026-08/the-holy-see-a-diplomacy-that-believes-in-peace.html