Why China’s man for peace in Ukraine might be the 'best possible choice' for Russia
NBCNov 25, 2022
The Facts
On Sunday, Pope Francis said the Vatican was engaged in a secret peace mission in an attempt to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war.
"I am willing to do everything that has to be done," the pope said aboard the Papal Plane following a three-day visit to Hungary. "I think that peace is always made by opening channels. You can never achieve peace through closure."
The Spin
Narrative A
Pope Francis has explicitly condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine and made countless appeals to end the war. Since the pope has previously engaged in a number of prisoner swaps and negotiations, his latest attempt to reconcile Russia and Ukraine is significant. It could bring positive results in ending an absurd and cruel war.
Narrative B
The pope has repeatedly offered to mediate a peace process throughout the conflict to no avail. So what's different to make us believe his efforts would succeed this time? Moreover, when he describes the war as Russian expansionism and imperialism and he holds the Ukrainian flag, it's clear which side of the conflict he sides with.