First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska has begun her visit to Italy and the Vatican to attend a Mass marking one thousand days since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
At the Vatican Apostolic Palace, Olena Zelenska and First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine - Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yuliia Svyrydenko had an audience with Pope Francis.
"Ukraine is grateful for the Holy See's contribution to the release of our prisoners of war. The devaluation of human life calls for greater pressure on Russia. We hope that the authority of the Holy See will help save more innocent lives that have the right to remain safe in their homeland," the First Lady said.
The President's wife and His Holiness discussed the efforts needed to free all Ukrainians from Russian captivity and to bring home all Ukrainian children deported by Russia.
Olena Zelenska also presented the Pontiff with a hand-painted St Nicholas plate from Ukraine.
"With the hope that peace and security for Ukrainians will finally prevail not just in our wishes, but also in reality," she added.
The First Lady also attended a general audience with guests from around the world in St Peter's Square.