Archbishop Gallagher Calls for Just Peace in Ukraine

Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, is currently on a multi-day mission to Ukraine to mark the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Latin-rite Catholic Church structures. According to the Vatican’s Secretariat of State, the visit includes high-level meetings in Lviv and Kyiv, with a formal celebration scheduled for July 19 at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Berdychiv.

Diplomatic Mission Amidst Ongoing Conflict

After arriving in Kraków, Poland—due to the closure of Ukrainian airspace—the delegation traveled by car to the Krakovets border crossing. The journey highlighted the logistical realities of the conflict, with border wait times for transit reaching between 8 and 10 hours.

Upon arrival in Lviv, Archbishop Gallagher met with Archbishop Mieczyslaw Mokrzycki and local officials. During these discussions, the Vatican representative emphasized the necessity of a “just end” to the war. “A just end to the war means bringing peace back to this part of Europe,” Gallagher stated, adding that the Holy See remains committed to acknowledging the sacrifices of the Ukrainian people.

The university campus, which includes specialized bunkers for residents of the surrounding neighborhoods, stands on land originally slated for Soviet propaganda offices.

The human toll of the conflict is evident within the academic community. According to Bishop Borys Gudziak, the university’s president and greco-catholic metropolitan bishop, approximately 40 people associated with the university—including students and their families—have died due to the war. Despite these challenges, the institution continues to operate, offering comprehensive support programs for individuals with disabilities, a mission highlighted during the delegation’s visit with program director Sister Maria Radist.

Future Diplomatic Trajectory

Following his engagements in Lviv, Archbishop Gallagher traveled to Rivne to visit the Church of Saint John Paul II before heading to the Apostolic Nunciature in Kyiv. In the capital, he is set to meet with Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, the major greek-catholic archbishop of Kyiv-Halyc.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is Archbishop Gallagher in Ukraine? He is the papal legate for the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Latin-rite Catholic Church structures in the country.
• How did the delegation enter the country? Due to the closure of Ukrainian airspace, the delegation traveled by car from Poland, crossing at the Krakovets border point.
• What is the primary message of the visit? The Archbishop has stated that the goal is to help create the conditions for a “just peace” in the region.

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