Ukraine crisis. News in brief. Monday 16 May [Ukrainian sources]

MONDAY

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Due to us taking a tour in Ukraine, news will be posted later during the day.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, on May 11 while addressing the University of Tartu announced that he also has plans to visit Ukraine on behalf of Pope Francis to underscore the Pope’s solidarity with the country. In his address, Cardinal Parolin said:

"The Catholic Church, though a minority in that country, is very active in responding to the needs of the population, although its resources are inadequate to meet the enormity of the task. To satisfy the humanitarian needs, especially in the most critical areas, the Holy See is preparing specific interventions for the benefit of all, without discriminating on the basis of religion or confession. Furthermore, through its diplomatic network, the Holy See continues to emphasize the importance of respecting international and humanitarian law and, in particular, the terms of the Minsk agreements, while encouraging all concerned to engage in a process of dialogue to overcome present difficulties and alleviate the suffering of the people. Given the gravity of the present situation, I myself shall travel to Ukraine next month in order to express the Holy Father’s solidarity with those who are suffering."

In general, Cardinal Parolin paid a lot of attention to the situation in Ukraine in the speech explaining what the Holy See does. The Cardinal stressed that Pope Francis, who continues to be deeply concerned about the tragedy of those suffering from the consequences of violence in Ukraine, announced a special collection, which was held in all churches throughout Europe on 24 April.

Cardinal Parolin took part in an official visit to Estonia on May 10-11 in order to discuss bilateral relations, the migration crisis and the current situation in the Mediterranean. His visit also marks the 25th anniversary of the reintroduction of diplomatic relations between Estonia and the Holy See.

ukrainebusiness.com.ua