Zelenskyy to Pope: Ukraine Will Not Give Up Land

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held critical meetings in Italy on Friday, stating clearly that his country will not surrender any territory to Russia. He first met with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Italy, under Meloni's leadership, has been a strong supporter of Ukraine, providing military aid and backing European Union sanctions against Russia. Later, Zelenskyy met privately with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. The Pope has repeatedly called for a just peace in Ukraine. A Vatican statement said their talks focused on the humanitarian situation and the need for a diplomatic solution. In a public statement after the meetings, President Zelenskyy was firm. "Our position is clear and unchanging," he said. "We will not give up any of our land." This refers to regions like Crimea and territories in eastern Ukraine currently occupied by Russian forces. The visit reinforces Ukraine's diplomatic efforts to secure continued Western support as the war continues.