In an exclusive interview with National Catholic Reporter, Archbishop Borys Gudziak, a prominent Ukrainian Catholic leader in the U.S., sharply criticized Pope Francis' recent suggestion that Ukraine should enter negotiations to end its ongoing war with Russia. Gudziak described the Pope's remarks as "very problematic" and stated that negotiating with Russia and President Putin is not a viable option.

Speaking on NCR's The Vatican Briefing podcast, Gudziak expressed his surprise and disappointment at the Pope's suggestion, stating, "Ukrainians have tried. They see that he [Putin] is a relentless killer." While acknowledging the Pope's concern for the people of Ukraine and suffering around the world, Gudziak found the expression used by Francis to be "very unfortunate."

Archbishop Gudziak, who currently heads the Archeparchy of Philadelphia, has been a leader in the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church for many years. He previously led the eparchy responsible for Ukrainian Catholics across several European countries.

The criticism from Gudziak comes in response to an interview with Pope Francis that was released by a Swiss broadcaster on March 9. In the interview, which has not been released in full, the Pope seemed to suggest that Ukrainian political leaders should not be ashamed to engage in peace talks. This suggestion drew criticism from various sectors of Ukrainian society, with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeting, "Our flag is blue and yellow. We live, die and win under it. We will not raise other flags."

Archbishop Gudziak emphasized the suffering endured by the Ukrainian people over the past two years and in previous conflicts with Russia. He highlighted the thousands of families who have lost loved ones or have relatives missing in action, living in constant anxiety about their fate.

Gudziak expressed that the Holy Father needs to understand the severity of the situation faced by Ukrainians and called for systematic and coherent communications from the Vatican. He also noted that the Pope is responsive to the plight of the Ukrainian people and works behind the scenes to provide support.

Referring to the Pope's interview, Gudziak stated that "the Russians really had a field day." The implications of the Pope's remarks on negotiations with Russia have been a cause for concern for many Ukrainians still grappling with the devastating impacts of the conflict.

The full interview with Archbishop Borys Gudziak can be heard on NCR's The Vatican Briefing podcast, available on various podcast platforms. As discussions on Ukraine's war with Russia continue, the reactions to the Pope's comments highlight the complex dynamics involved and the ongoing quest for peace in the region.