Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone conversation with Pope Francis on April 3, coinciding with a significant Russian attack on Ukraine. During this call, Zelenskyy reported that Russia had launched hundreds of drones and missiles against various Ukrainian cities.
“I spoke today with Pope Francis. At the very moment of our conversation, the Russians were attacking Ukraine again—hundreds of ‘Shahed’ drones and dozens of missiles targeting our towns and communities. The assault has been ongoing since nightfall, affecting at least five regions,” Zelenskyy stated.
The president emphasized the relentless nature of the attacks, noting that Ukrainians have not experienced a moment of peace. He described the Russian response to a proposed ceasefire for Easter as an escalation rather than a gesture of goodwill.
“The Russians have only intensified their strikes, turning what should be a peaceful time into an Easter escalation. This cannot be ignored, and I am grateful to everyone worldwide who speaks out against it,” he added.
During the conversation, Zelenskyy also updated the Pope on diplomatic efforts and collaboration with the American team. He expressed gratitude for the Vatican’s assistance in repatriating abducted Ukrainian children and for the humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine, particularly during the harsh winter months.
In addition to discussing the situation in Ukraine, they touched upon issues in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Zelenskyy extended his best wishes for a blessed Easter to the Pope and the faithful celebrating this Sunday, expressing hope for a future apostolic visit to Ukraine. He thanked the Pope for keeping Ukraine in his prayers and advocating for peace for the Ukrainian people.
On the same day, Russia executed a large-scale combined assault on Ukraine, deploying over 500 drones and cruise missiles. Residential buildings, shopping centers, and even a veterinary clinic were among the targets, resulting in casualties, injuries, and power outages.
According to reports, Ukraine’s air defense forces managed to intercept or neutralize 541 out of 579 hostile targets, including 26 missiles and 515 various types of drones. However, 11 missiles and 27 strike drones successfully hit 20 locations, with debris from intercepted drones falling in 22 areas.
Regions such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, Sumy, and Poltava were specifically targeted during these daytime attacks. Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Central Defense Command, stated that the primary objective of these assaults is to increase civilian casualties, which is why such a large-scale attack occurred on a weekday using numerous drones and missiles.
Further details on the impact of this extensive bombardment will be covered in subsequent reports.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy spoke with Pope Francis during a significant Russian attack on Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing violence and expressing gratitude for the Vatican's support. The assault on April 3 involved hundreds of drones and missiles, targeting civilian areas and resulting in casualties.