In a recent development, the Kremlin has expressed support for Pope Francis's call for negotiations to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, while NATO's secretary general has emphasized the need to avoid discussions of surrender. The war, now in its third year, has escalated as Russia makes gains on the battlefield, leaving the West grappling with how to support Ukraine and what a potential change in US policy under a Donald Trump presidency may entail.

Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, acknowledged the Pope's suggestions, stating that it was understandable for him to advocate for negotiations. Peskov further highlighted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently demonstrated his willingness to engage in peace talks. However, these offers have faced strong resistance from various parties, including the West. Moscow's negotiation proposals have centered on the condition that Ukraine cede the territories currently controlled by Russia, which make up more than a sixth of the country.

Addressing Russia's intentions, Peskov dismissed Western hopes of a strategic defeat, asserting that events on the battlefield decisively indicated otherwise. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, on the other hand, stressed that negotiations must aim to preserve Ukraine's sovereignty and independence. Stoltenberg claimed that discussions could only progress once Russia realizes that victory on the battlefield is not achievable. He further argued for providing military support to Ukraine as a means to achieving a negotiated, peaceful, and lasting solution.

Stoltenberg's remarks signified that now is not the time to consider talk of surrender by the Ukrainians. He warned against the dangers of such a scenario, as it would set a precedent for Russia to utilize military force and invade other countries in order to achieve its objectives. Stoltenberg firmly stated that allowing Russia to achieve its goals through such means would be a tragedy, not only for Ukraine but also for the international community.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in response to Pope Francis's call for talks, labeled it as "virtual mediation" from a distance. Although Zelenskyy did not directly mention the Pope or his statements, he stated that the pontiff's ideas did not align with the efforts of religious figures within Ukraine to assist the nation. Zelenskyy affirmed that Ukrainian religious figures have been providing support through prayer, discussion, and meaningful actions.

In a significant move, Zelenskyy previously signed a decree ruling out talks with Putin since 2022. He recently announced that Russia would not be invited to a peace summit scheduled to take place in Switzerland.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the international community remains divided on how to best address the situation. The responses from the Kremlin, NATO, and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reflect the complex dynamics at play and the ongoing challenges to finding a peaceful resolution to the war.