Ukrainian Delegation Meets Pope Leo XIV to Advocate for Prisoners of War

Ukrainian Women Seek Papal Intervention for POWs

A delegation of Ukrainian women met with Pope Leo XIV on February 18, 2026, following a general audience in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican. The primary objective of the meeting was to draw attention to the critical situation of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs) currently held in Russia and to advocate for their release. The encounter provided a moment of both consolation and renewed hope for the families affected by the ongoing conflict.

Delegation Highlights Plight of Captured Soldiers

The delegation included Kateryna Muzlova, director of the charitable foundation Heart in Action, alongside eleven other Ukrainian women representing various non-governmental organizations and associations dedicated to supporting the families of missing and captured soldiers. Andrii Yurash, Ukraine's ambassador to the Holy See, was also present during the significant meeting. Muzlova, whose own father, Oleh, was captured in Mariupol and later freed after three years, emphasized the importance of the Pope's closeness to suffering families.

During their brief encounter with the Pontiff, the Ukrainian representatives shared their profound concerns and presented Pope Leo XIV with several symbolic gifts. These included an amber icon of St. Nicholas from northern Ukraine, a painting titled 'Guardian Angel' by artist Olha Sypelyk, and a portrait created by a 12-year-old girl whose father remains missing at the front. These gestures underscored the personal toll of the conflict and the deep desire for the return of their loved ones.

Vatican's Ongoing Role in Humanitarian Efforts

The meeting falls within the broader context of the Holy See's consistent engagement in humanitarian efforts related to the conflict in Ukraine. The Vatican has previously played a role in facilitating prisoner exchanges and has been a vocal advocate for peace and the respect of international law. Pope Leo XIV has reportedly emphasized his commitment to defending truth, denouncing injustice, and protecting the rights of the most vulnerable. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also previously provided lists of Ukrainian detainees to the Vatican, seeking diplomatic mediation for their release.

Hope for Future Interventions

The delegation expressed that shaking the Pope's hand and feeling his empathy offered significant spiritual consolation and hope. The women's visit serves as a public appeal, ensuring that the plight of those in captivity and their waiting families is not forgotten. The ongoing dialogue between Ukrainian representatives and the Holy See highlights the continuous efforts to secure the release of all prisoners of war and to alleviate the suffering caused by the conflict.