SW News: Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, Archbishop of Bologna and President of the Italian Bishops' Conference, will travel to Moscow as a representative of Pope Francis, the Holy See Press Office announced on Tuesday.

The two-day trip beginning June 28 aims to support humanitarian gestures that can help promote a peaceful solution in war-torn Ukraine. A representative from the Secretariat of State will travel with Cardinal Zuppi.

As of June 18, 2023, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) had confirmed a total of 9,083 civilian deaths as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In addition, it was stated that 15,779 persons had been hurt. The OHCHR noted that the actual figures might be higher.

Cardinal Zuppi will support Pope Francis's call for an end to the conflict in Ukraine while he is in Moscow. The Pope has been an outspoken proponent of peace, repeatedly urging both individuals and world leaders to work towards resolving conflict peacefully.

He has frequently requested prayers for those who are suffering as a result of the conflict in Ukraine. The Cardinal visited Kyiv previously on June 5 and 6, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other top government officials. Cardinal Zuppi expressed Pope Francis' sympathy for the Ukrainian people during the meeting.

The Cardinal emphasized that in order to end the war justly, all parties must prioritize dialogue and find common ground.

The meeting with President Zelensky offered a chance to talk about ways to reduce suffering, reestablish trust, and achieve peace.

Cardinal Zuppi reaffirmed the Vatican's willingness to provide support through diplomatic and humanitarian means. The cardinal’s trip to Moscow as the papal peace envoy aims to highlight the Holy See's commitment to actively participate in peace-building initiatives and work with international partners for peace.