Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelenski congratulated him Pope Leo The 14th for his election and expressed hope that the Vatican would continue to support Kiev against the Russian invasion.
“At this decisive moment for our country, we hope for further moral and spiritual support from the Vatican in Ukraine’s efforts with the aim of rendering justice and achieving constant peace,” Zelenski wrote in a post on the Telegram platform, shortly after his election.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also congratulated the Pontiff, also convinced that the constructive dialogue between Moscow and the Vatican will continue.
“I am sure that the constructive dialogue and contacts between Russia and the Vatican will further develop on the basis of the Christian values that unite us,” Putin said in a congratulatory message to the new Roman Catholic Church.