Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky emphasized the urgent need to end the ongoing conflict with Russia, highlighting the aim to stop the loss of lives.

Zelensky conveyed this sentiment during a meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, in Kiev. He thanked the Vatican for its support.

Zelensky had previously told the BBC that he hoped to conclude the 'hot stage' of the war by the end of the year, advocating for a unified Western backing of his 'peace formula.' This formula includes demands such as Russia’s withdrawal from all claimed Ukrainian territories, reparations, war crimes trials, and Ukraine's NATO membership.

However, Russia has rejected these terms.

Pope Francis had urged Kiev to negotiate, a notion previously dismissed by Ukrainian officials.

The shift in Zelensky’s tone might be influenced by concerns over potential changes in U.S. policy with a possible return of Donald Trump.

Russia has also indicated a willingness to negotiate, setting terms like Ukraine abandoning NATO aspirations and lifting Western sanctions against Russia.