“Our country is ready to cooperate with all those who desire a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis, taking into account the interests of Russia and the current reality,” Zakharova told the Sputnik news agency this Thursday.

The spokeswoman noted that since the Ukrainian crisis began, the Vatican has maintained a neutral and balanced stance, and declares its willingness to provide all possible assistance to achieve a cessation of hostilities and peace.

The diplomat recalled that the Vatican Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, insisted on including Russia in the peace talks during his recent visit to Ukraine.

According to Zakharova, Parolin expressed what is obvious to any sensible person: the impossibility of achieving a just long-term peace without Moscow. “Let’s hope Kiev will listen to the cardinal’s arguments,” she added.

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