During the conversation with the Pope, the head of state congratulated the Supreme Pontiff on his election and conveyed the good wishes of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, the presidency said in a statement.

Putin also highlighted Pope Francis’ contribution to the development of relations between Russia and the Holy See.

The interlocutors agreed to continue working on rapprochement based on spiritual values and discussed the expansion of cultural and humanitarian contacts, as well as the protection of Christians and holy sites, including in the Middle East.

The parties also exchanged views on the situation in Ukraine.

Putin confirmed the priority of a political and diplomatic solution and stressed the importance of eliminating the causes of the conflict.

The Russian president reported on the agreements reached in Istanbul on the exchange of prisoners of war and the bodies of the deceased, and highlighted efforts to reunite children with their families.

He thanked the Vatican for its willingness to facilitate consent and stressed the importance of a depoliticized approach to humanitarian issues.

He also condemned the actions of the Kiev authorities and stated that attacks on civilian targets on Russian territory are considered terrorism under international law.

At the end of the conversation, hope was expressed for more active support from the Holy See for religious freedom in Ukraine. Both sides confirmed their intention to keep in contact.

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