The Vatican will join efforts to free Ukrainian journalists held in Russian captivity. The Holy See's ambassador to Ukraine, Visvaldas Kulbokas, confirmed that he will use diplomatic channels to do so.
This was announced by the head of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, Serhiy Tomilenko.
Kulbokas received an updated list and detailed materials on 31 civilian media representatives held by the occupiers, as well as one military journalist captured while performing combat missions. These data were verified by the NUJU.
The Vatican ambassador reacted particularly emotionally to the news of the death of Ukrainian journalist Viktoriya Roshchyna, who, according to the Union, died as a result of torture in Russian captivity. “I pray for her,” Kulbokas said, expressing condolences to her family and colleagues.
Pope Francis has previously called for the release of all imprisoned journalists who have suffered for their pursuit of the truth. "The Church recognizes in these witnesses - I am thinking of those who report on war even at the cost of their own lives - the courage of those who defend dignity, justice and the right of people to be informed," the pontiff said.
The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine continues to work on collecting and transmitting information about captured media workers to international organizations and diplomatic missions. The NUJU calls on the international community not to remain on the sidelines.
