On behalf of President Zelensky, Iryna Vereshchuk presented Cardinal Matteo Zuppi with a Ukrainian state award. His Eminence received the Order of Merit, Second Class. Iryna Vereshchuk wrote about this on Facebook.
"The return of Ukrainian prisoners and the repatriation of illegally deported Ukrainian children remain top priorities for President Zelensky and the Head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak," she stated. "This award recognizes the significant role of the Holy See in international humanitarian efforts and expresses the sincere gratitude of Ukrainians to Cardinal Zuppi for his dedicated work in liberating our people," Vereshchuk added. (Quelle: www.risu.ua, 21. November 2025)