President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he shares the disappointment of Pope Leo XIV over Russia’s refusal to accept the recent proposal for a Christmas ceasefire.

He wrote about this on social media on December 24.

“We appreciate the constant attention of Pope Leo XIV to all diplomatic efforts aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine, and we share His Holiness’s disappointment over Russia’s refusal to accept the recent proposal for a Christmas ceasefire”, — the statement reads.

According to him, unfortunately, the Ukrainian people are celebrating their fourth Christmas amid a full-scale war — the largest in Europe since World War II.

“Russia not only rejected the proposal to stop the killings even on this holy day; it launched a massive missile and drone strike on Ukraine’s energy system, causing power outages, and continues assaults along the front”, — Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

As he noted, it is important that people around the world do not remain silent.

“It is important not to allow Russia to normalize cruelty, terror, and aggression against our people. I call on all responsible leaders to support peace, as the Pontiff does. We are grateful for every such expression of solidarity.

I wish peaceful holidays to every family around the world. Happy Christmas Eve to everyone who celebrates today. May peace be restored in every peace-loving country and every community observing this holiday in times of war”, — the President added.